I found the ultimate solvent today
 

Liquid propane. :fear:

We had a leaking fitting at work today and I was using my trusty crescent wrench to remove it. When I pulled it out to replace the o-ring some liquid propane poured out on my greasy wrench but it wasn't much so I got the fitting repaired and buttoned up. When I looked down at the wrench, it was the cleanest tool I'd ever seen. All the surfaces were bright, no oil to be found, no residue of any type. It was damn cold though. :rolleyes:

Just thought I'd share.

Great
Now for the explosion of LP explosions from guys cleaning things.
I'll have to try it too.

lets see how it looks in a week

Ha, I suppose that could happen.

That LP was draining into a pit, where it promptly flashed, but I'd like to have seen the residue. Maybe I'll simulate the conditions and see what gets left behind on the floor.

What actually cleaned the wrench, the liquid propane or the ensuing flash fire?

Wait a minute, you're an engineer, why you wrenching? Lol

he means it evaporated stroked

I prefer nitroglycerin or hydrofloric acid

I used to work at a car wash while in school. Great tips. But they had bug cleaner that was just kerosene. Bugs, tar would wipe off smooth. Re wash the area and wax. Showroom shine every time. I did it on my personal vehicle and paint was never hurt. I'm sure leaving it on too long wouldn't be good. I'm no paint expert. Probably terrible to do.

freon works incredibly well as a cleaner also.