I was using Park Tool degreaser but I ran out of it. Is it safe to use a non-bike-specific degreaser?
The one I am using is the Screwfix No nonsense Heavy Duty Degreaser 5lt. I will probably switch to the Muc Off degreaser which is biodegradable but I just wanted to know if the one I am using is safe on bikes. I haven't done anything so far but just checking. Also is it safe to use WD-40 to do the same job?
This depends on which part of the bike you are degreasing.
For degreasing the chain, whatever works for you should be fine. In the worst case, you will learn that the particular type of degreaser does not work to break the muck of your chain. Every non-corroding substance may be tried: from plain water through dish soap detergent up to aceton, kerosene and petrol (the last one is dangerously flammable!).
As an example, I usually use bicycle-specific environmentally friendly degreasers. When I am out of them (like it is now), I use dish soap and heavy scrubbing. For a certain label of PFTE lube (I no longer use it), I have discovered that nothing would solve it except for soaking in acetone or lye. That lube worked great while it lasted, but washing it away was near impossible.
The classic WD-40 will also work as degreaser in many cases (not as lubricant however). Although, it is a quite expensive fluid for such a task. Lacking anything else at hand, I would not hesitate to apply it.
For any other surface on the bike, including brake rotors, frame paint etc., more care must be taken, unless you are prepared to replace a ruined part.
For brake rotors, use water if you do not have a brake-specific detergent. After washing brakes, the initial braking efficiency may decrease for a short period, then return back to normal. Be prepared for it.
Is it safe to use a non-bike-specific degreaser?
The word "safe" has can be complicated.
The producer of the product will tell you that the product is safe if used as directed. The instructions that come with the product as well as the safety data sheet are needed to understand how to use a product.
For Screwfix No nonsense Heavy Duty Degreaser there is a safety data sheet that describes the conditions in which it is safe to use the product.
In order to be safe for people the SDS recommends gloves and eye covering when splashing is a possibility when the product is used according to the instructions:
8.2 Exposure controls
· Personal protective equipment:
· General protective and hygienic measures:
Keep away from foodstuffs, beverages and feed. Immediately remove all soiled and contaminated clothing Wash hands before breaks and at the end of work.
Avoid contact with the skin.
Avoid contact with the eyes and skin.
· Respiratory protection: Not required.
The SDS does not list any hazards related to reacting with plastics or metals or paint.
ask a no-nonsense car mechanic drenched in car oils all day, if you have a expensive bike, then yea go nuts and pamper it as your heart wishes, but if you have a simple bike, that you just need it to work than use whatever oil, and a comon sense, ..
my case? i have a bike that once evry two years i take it apart, i take a open recipient i put the chain in it, and drench it, in whatever oil/or lubricat i find.
You allso can buy a compressed air botle of lubricant, that usualy will do the job for all your cycle parts.
