Cleaning disc brakes

[snowy10]

Hi
Can anyone tell me the best thing to clean the disc on disc brakes with please?
Thanks

 

[GrumpyGregry]

brake cleaner. does exactly what it says on the can.

 

[spence]

Methalated spirit would be an alternative if no brake cleaner to hand.

 

[Moodyman]

Not tried it personally, but a couple of bike shops told me I could use Cola or unfragranced alcholic hand rub as substitute if I didn't have the brake cleaner.

 

[Howard]

Methalated spirit would be an alternative if no brake cleaner to hand.

Out of interest, what's wrong with warm soapy water? On the proviso that you wipe the disc dry after cleaning.

 

[e-rider]

Yes, methalated spirit; but NOT white spirit as this leaves a residue behind which you don't want on your rotors.

Methalated spirit is toxic so read the label - it can have very serious effects such as blindness so don't drink it, breathe the vapours or have contact with the skin.

 

[e-rider]

Out of interest, what's wrong with warm soapy water? On the proviso that you wipe the disc dry after cleaning.

warm soapy water will not be as good at removing oil and grease that might have got onto the brakes from the drivechain (esp. the rear one)

 

[Barbelier]

brake cleaner. does exactly what it says on the can.

+1
Did mine recently after some 600 miles. Noticeable improvement in braking performance and now quieter.

 

[ChrisKH]

Yes, methalated spirit; but NOT white spirit as this leaves a residue behind which you don't want on your rotors.

Methalated spirit is toxic so read the label - it can have very serious effects such as blindness so don't drink it, breathe the vapours or have contact with the skin.

Bugger, i'm going to die soon. I'm always getting Meths on me hands. Is it that toxic?

 

[Howard]

warm soapy water will not be as good at removing oil and grease that might have got onto the brakes from the drivechain (esp. the rear one)

That makes sense, cheers - will consider a tougher cleaner if the discs are particularly crufty.

 

[Moodyman]

Is it wise using Meths (highly flammable) on discs which can get very hot?

 

[GrumpyGregry]

meths evaporates, forcing you to breathe in its toxic vapour which will result in your untimely de

 

[Norm]

Greg? GREG?

Quick, someone get to Horsham with the (non-meths based) smelling salts!