Degreasers and solvents

• There are many different types of solvents
and degreasers available to remove the grime
and grease which accumulate around the
motorcycle during normal use. Degreasers
and solvents are usually available as an
aerosol-type spray or as a liquid which you
apply with a brush. Always closely follow the
manufacturer's instructions and wear eye
protection during use. Be aware that many
solvents are flammable and may give off
noxious fumes; take adequate precautions
when using them (see Safety Firstf).

• For general cleaning, use one of the many
solvents or degreasers available from most
motorcycle accessory shops. These solvents
are usually applied then left for a certain time
before being washed off with water.

Brake cleaneris a solvent specifically designed to remove all traces of oil, grease and dust from braking system components. Brake cleaner is designed to evaporate quickly and leaves behind no residue.

Carburettor cleaneris an aerosol-type solvent specifically designed to clear carburettor blockages and break down the hard deposits and gum often found inside carburettors during overhaul.

Contact cleaneris an aerosol-type solvent designed for cleaning electrical components. The cleaner will remove all traces of oil and dirt from components such as switch contacts or fouled spark plugs and then dry, leaving behind no residue.

Gasket removeris an aerosol-type solvent designed for removing stubborn gaskets from engine components during overhaul. Gasket remover will minimise the amount of scraping required to remove the gasket and therefore reduce the risk of damage to the mating surface.

Spray lubricants

• Aerosol-based spray lubricants are widely available and are excellent for lubricating lever pivots and exposed cables and switches. Try to use a lubricant which is of the dry-film type as the fluid evaporates, leaving behind a dry-film of lubricant. Lubricants which leave behind an oily residue will attract dust and dirt which will increase the rate of wear of the cable/lever.

• Most lubricants also act as a moisture dispersant

and a penetrating fluid. This means they can also be used to 'dry out' electrical components such as wiring connectors or switches as well as helping to free seized fasteners.

Greases

• Grease is used to lubricate many of the
pivot-points. A good-quality multi-purpose
grease is suitable for most applications but
some manufacturers will specify the use of
specialist greases for use on components
such as swingarm and suspension linkage
bushes. These specialist greases can be
purchased from most motorcycle (or car)
accessory shops; commonly specified types
include molybdenum disulphide grease,
lithium-based grease, graphite-based grease,
silicone-based grease and high-temperature
copper-based grease.

Date: 2016-01-14; view: 916