GOOD OR BAD "ULTRASONIC CLEANERS"

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I have one of those Ultrasonic cleaner that use’s just tap water to clean tooling ( I am a CNC Machinist). It’s has a 6x6x6 tub. My question is will it hurt to completly submerge a loco in it? Like a 0-4-0 Dockside? Will it cause any harm to the motor, ect?

Thanks

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2

I would disassemble a locomotive before putting it in an ultrasonic cleaner, regardless of the cleaning agent used. And I would certainly remove the motor before cleaning.

I am told there are solvents into which a motor can be safely immersed for cleaning (I believe LaBelle used to make such a product), but water is not one of them.

Another thing to watch for are solvents that attack plastics and adhesives. Even brass engines may have plastic parts in the drive system, and insulated wheels. Moreover, it is not unusual for plastic or even metal detail parts to be cemented onto metal locomotives.

I’ve also heard of ultrasonic cleaners shaking loose poorly soldered joints.

3

Dis-assembly is strongly encouraged.