Cleaning Spark Arrestors

[randerson]

What is the best method for cleaning spark arrestors? It makes sense to use a degreaser but what is the recommended solution (if any)?

Andy
1988 270 Sundancer
Twin 5.7/260's

 

[penbroke]

I don't know about the best way. I just spray them from the inside with a bit of carb cleaner and blow them out/dry with compressed air.

Frank

 

[Sadler]

With more attention paid to environmental and safety issues, de-greasers are not what they used to be. I just buy the degreasers sold at the auto parts stores, use it to clean the arrestor, then use a soap cleaner (409, etc) to clean the non-evaporating degreaser off the arrestor.

An oily spark arrestor isn't safe for sure, but I can tell you, it can make your engine look like it's time for a rebuild. I about had a heart attack once when my engine exhaust started looking pretty smokey. Cleaned the spark arrestor, and voila, no blue smoke.

 

[jackson]

Does anyone know how the K&N marine flame arrestors are and if they make any difference in performance?

 

[Sea Ray 300]

While I had a parts cleaner available to me, I would use that, making sure to cover the opening while the arrestor was removed.
Now, I'll bring them to an auto repair garage, and tip the mechanic to use his parts cleaner. :wink:

 

[Stray Cat]

The manual for a 350 Mag says to use warm water and a mild detergent (a degreaser?) and allow to air dry before use.

 

[goblue]

I swish them around in a shallow pan of gasoline, then hit them with a blast of water from the hose to get the gas off followed by washing them in soapy water. Let them air dry after that.

 

[b_arrington]

I tried the least explosive method first, and it worked so well that there was no need for carb cleaner or gasoline.

Hot water and some dish soap in a bucket; let soak; rinse. Use a stiff brush if more cleaning is needed.

 

[J Levine]

I buy cheap brake cleaner 6 cans at a time and use it to clean anything and everything including the flame arrestors.

Removes grease from your tie too!

 

[sr360aft]

I hate to say it and my wife would kill me if she found out but I sneak them into to the dishwasher before spring commisioning. Works great and no water spots