Last Updated on June 26, 2023 by Mark S. Taylor
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to effectively use brake cleaner without removing the tire. The performance of your car’s braking system can be improved and maintained with the help of brake cleaner. You may effectively clean your brakes and guarantee that they perform to their full potential by adhering to the right procedures and safety considerations.
Contents
What is Brake Cleaner?
A specialized solvent called brake cleaner is used to clean brake components of impurities such oil, grease, brake fluid, and brake dust. It comes in aerosol form and is designed to quickly evaporate, leaving no trace. Cleaning brake components, such as calipers, rotors, and brake pads, with brake cleaner is quite effective.
Why Use Brake Cleaner?
For the braking system to remain effective and durable, brake cleaner is a must. Debris, grease, and brake dust can build up on brake parts over time, which can impair their functionality. You may get rid of these pollutants and avoid potential problems like brake screeching, decreased stopping power, and premature wear by routinely cleaning your brakes with brake cleaner.
Safety Measures
To safeguard you and the environment, you must follow a few safety precautions before applying brake cleaner. Following these crucial safety precautions will keep you safe:
To prevent breathing in the fumes, work in an area with good ventilation or install a ventilation system.
To avoid getting the cleaner in your eyes or on your skin, put on safety goggles and gloves.
As it is quite combustible, keep the brake cleaner away from sparks and open flames.
Follow local requirements while disposing of hazardous goods including used brake cleaner.
Materials and Equipment Required
To successfully utilize brake cleaner without removing the tire, assemble the necessary equipment and supplies:
aerosol can for brake cleaner
security glasses
gloves for protection
Clean shop towels or lint-free cloths
toothbrush or a cleaning brush for brakes
Air compressor or compressed air can (optional)
(If required for accessing brake components) Jack stands
(If required to secure the car) Wheel chocks
How to Use Brake Cleaner Without Removing the Tire: A Step-by-Step Guide
In order to use brake cleaner without removing the tire off, adhere to following detailed instructions:
Set up the workspace
Make sure the car is parked on a level surface with the parking brake engaged before you start. If necessary, lock the wheels with wheel chocks and lift the car using jack stands to have a better look at the brake parts.
Remove the Wheel Cover (if applicable)
To reach the brake parts if your car has a wheel cover, carefully take it off.
Identify the Brake Components
Find the brake parts that you want to clean. The brake calipers, rotors, and brake pads may be a part of this.
Spray Brake Cleaner
Spray the brake cleaner from the aerosol can straight onto the parts of the brakes you wish to clean after giving it a good shake. Make sure the cleaner gets to all potential dirt- and debris-containing places.
Scrub with a Brake Cleaning Brush
Scrub the sprayed areas gently with a toothbrush or brake cleaning brush. This will encourage better cleaning by assisting in the removal of any tenacious pollutants.
Wipe Off Excess Cleaner
Wipe up any leftover brake cleaner and dissolved impurities from the brake parts using a clean, lint-free cloth or shop towel. If required, repeat the spraying and cleaning steps until the components are clean.
Inspect for Residue
After cleaning, check the brake parts for any lingering debris or impurities. Repeat the cleaning procedure as necessary until all debris has been removed from the components.
Dry the Components
Allow the thoroughly cleaned brake parts to air dry. As an alternative, you can quicken the drying process by using compressed air or an air compressor.
Reassemble the Wheel and Wheel Cover
Reassemble the wheel and, if necessary, the wheel cover when the brake parts have dried. Be sure to tighten all fasteners all the way.
Repeat for Other Wheels
For the remaining wheels and brake components on your car, repeat the complete procedure.
Reasons Why You Should Use a Brake Cleaner
An crucial item for preserving the effectiveness and lifetime of your car’s braking system is brake cleaner. Here are various justifications for using brake cleaner:
Eliminate Contaminants: Brake cleaner is made to remove oil, grease, brake fluid, and brake dust from brake components in an efficient manner. These impurities may build up over time and have a detrimental effect on how well the brake system works.
Enhance Braking Performance: You can get the best performance out of your brakes by cleaning them using a brake cleaner. Better contact between the brake pads and rotors is made possible by removing the buildup of impurities, which enhances braking performance.
Reduce Brake Noise: Brake screaming or squeaking noises can be caused by brake dust and debris. These particles are removed by cleaning the brakes with a brake cleaner, which reduces braking noise and makes driving more peaceful.
Prevent Early Wear: Early wear and tear on brake components can be caused by contaminants. Using a brake cleaner on a regular basis will help your brakes last longer and avoid expensive repairs or replacements.
Ensure Safety: For safe driving, a well-functioning braking system is essential. Your brakes’ effectiveness may be maintained by using a brake cleaner, ensuring that you can stop your car quickly and safely when necessary.
Read More: How to Use a Brake Piston Tool: A Step-by-Step Guide
How to Clean Drum Brakes Using Brake Cleaner
Drum brakes need to be cleaned with particular care. Here is a step-by-step tutorial for using brake cleaner to clean drum brakes:
Organize the Workspace: Put the parking brake on when you place your car in a level parking space. Wheel chocks should be used to secure the vehicle and stop it from rolling.
Locate the brake drum and, if necessary, release the retaining screws or bolts to remove it. Rust or corrosion may cause the drum to become stuck in various situations. To assist release it, use a penetrating oil or a rubber mallet.
Examine the Brakes: After the drum has been taken off, visually examine the drum brakes for any indications of wear, corrosion, or an excessive buildup of brake dust. Consult a qualified mechanic if more analysis and repairs are required.
Shake the brake cleaner aerosol can thoroughly before spraying it straight over the drum brakes. Make sure the cleaner gets to all the places where dirt and pollutants might be.
Brake Cleaning Brush: Gently scrub the areas that were sprayed using a brake cleaning brush or a toothbrush. Keep a close eye on the springs, brake shoe linings, and other parts. This will facilitate thorough cleaning and assist in removing any tenacious pollutants.
Remove Dissolved impurities and Extra Cleaner: Remove any dissolved impurities and extra brake cleaner from the drum brakes using a clean, lint-free cloth or shop towel. If required, repeat the spraying and cleaning steps until the components are clean.
After cleaning, thoroughly examine the drum brakes to make sure they are clear of debris and pollutants before reassembling. Reinstall the drum and fasten it with the proper screws or bolts to reassemble the drum brakes if everything appears to be in order.
Test the Brakes: To make sure the cleaned drum brakes are working properly, conduct a full brake test before to driving. Apply the brakes gradually and at various speeds to check their efficiency and reactivity.
What Can Brake Cleaner Be Used For?
A product like brake cleaner is adaptable and has several uses besides just cleaning brakes. Here are a few typical uses for brake cleaner:
Cleaning Engine Components: Engine parts like carburetors, throttle bodies, and intake manifolds can be cleaned by using brake cleaner to remove grease, oil, and grime. It enhances the effectiveness and performance of these components.
Degreasing Tools: Automotive tools like wrenches, sockets, and screwdrivers can be cleaned and degreased with brake cleaner. It keeps the instruments in top shape by removing impurities like oil, dirt, and grime.
Removing Adhesive Residue: Stickers, decals, and tape can leave behind adhesive residue that can be removed with brake cleaner. The afflicted area should be treated with brake cleaner, which should then be removed after letting the residue sit for a few minutes.
Surface cleaning: Grease, oil, and other tough stains can be removed from surfaces using brake cleaner. It is appropriate for cleaning a variety of surfaces, including metals, plastics, and ceramics because it evaporates quickly and leaves no residue.
Surface Preparation for Painting: Before painting automobile or other metal surfaces, brake cleaner can be used to remove pollutants like oil, grime, and dust that could interfere with the paint’s ability to adhere. It guarantees a spotless and even surface for more effective painting.
Cleaning Activities: Brake cleaner comes in handy for cleaning activities both inside and outside of vehicles. It is good in cleaning workshop equipment, degreasing bike chains, and removing grime from engine compartments.
Brake cleaner contains volatile components and can catch fire, so be sure to use it in a well-ventilated location and observe safety procedures. Follow local restrictions when disposing of empty aerosol cans and spent brake cleaner.
