How to Clean Excavator Parts With an Ultrasonic Cleaner

Are your excavator parts dirty and grimy? A good cleaning will make them work better and last longer. But not just any cleaning will do.

Ultrasonic cleaners are a great tool for cleaning excavator parts. They clean better than scrubbing by hand, especially for parts with small spaces and channels.

In this guide, you'll learn how to use an ultrasonic cleaner for your excavator parts. You'll see which parts benefit most and how to get the best results.

Which Excavator Parts Are Better Cleaned With Ultrasonic Cleaner?

1. Hydraulic Parts

These parts benefit most from ultrasonic cleaning:

Control valves - Gets rid of sticky buildup that makes valves stick or move slowly

Hydraulic pump parts - Cleans without scratching precision surfaces

Fittings and connectors - Cleans thread areas where leaks often start

2. Fuel System Parts

These parts develop carbon deposits and varnish:

Fuel injectors - Cleans spray holes for better fuel delivery

Injection pumps - Removes deposits that affect timing

Fuel filter housings - Makes reusable parts like new

3. Small Engine Parts

These also work well in an ultrasonic cleaner:

Thermostats - Removes scale that affects cooling

Small sensors - Cleans without damage

Nuts, bolts, and clamps - Gets rid of oil and dirt

How to Clean Your Excavator Parts Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare Your Parts

Take apart the components following your equipment manual. Rinse off loose dirt with water or use compressed air to blow it away.

Check what materials your parts are made from. Most excavator parts are steel or iron and clean well in ultrasonic cleaners.

Step 2: Set Up Your Ultrasonic Cleaner

Fill the cleaner with the right solution. For oily, greasy excavator parts, use a solution made for metals. Follow the mixing instructions on the package.

Heat the solution to about 140°F (60°C) for best results. Most ultrasonic cleaners have built-in heaters.

Step 3: Arrange the Parts

Put your parts in the cleaning basket carefully. Follow these tips:

• Don't stack parts on top of each other

• Make sure all surfaces can touch the cleaning solution

• Position hollow parts so air bubbles can escape

• Keep any rubber seals above the solution if possible

Step 4: Run the Cleaning Cycle

Set the timer for 10-15 minutes to start. Some really dirty parts might need up to 30 minutes.

Don't open the lid during cleaning - this reduces the effectiveness.

Step 5: Check and Repeat if Needed

After the cycle, check your parts. If they're still dirty, run another cycle. Some stubborn deposits might need a second or third cleaning.

Step 6: Rinse and Dry

Rinse your parts thoroughly with clean water. Distilled water works best for the final rinse.

Dry the parts completely. You can use:

• Compressed air

• A warm oven (170°F/75°C)

• Clean, lint-free towels

Step 7: Protect and Reassemble

Apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust, especially on bare metal parts.

Reassemble everything according to your equipment manual.

Choosing the Right Ultrasonic Cleaner

Not all ultrasonic cleaners work well for excavator parts. Here's what to look for:

Size

Choose based on your largest parts:

• 2-3 gallon size works for mini excavator parts

• 5-10 gallon size works for standard excavator parts

• 15+ gallon size works for large components

Features

Look for these helpful features:

• Heater (essential for excavator parts)

• Timer

• Drain valve

• Stainless steel tank

• Basket to hold parts

Power

Make sure it has enough power. Look for at least 40 watts per gallon of capacity for tough excavator grime.

Best Cleaning Solutions to Use

Using the right ultrasonic cleaning solution makes a big difference.

For Greasy, Oily Parts

Use a degreasing solution made for metals. These cut through hydraulic fluid and engine oil well.

Avoid harsh solvents that could damage seals or plastics if your parts have these materials.

For Carbon Deposits

Use a solution made for fuel system parts. These break down carbon deposits from fuel and combustion.

For Rusty Parts

Use a rust-removing solution if your parts have surface rust. Follow up with oil after cleaning to prevent new rust.

Further reading: How to DIY eco friendly ultrasonic cleaner solution

Safety Tips

Stay safe while cleaning:

1. Wear gloves to protect your hands from chemicals

2. Use eye protection in case of splashes

3. Work in a well-ventilated area

4. Keep solutions away from children and pets

5. Never put your hands in the cleaner while it's running

Maintenance Tips

Keep your ultrasonic cleaner working well:

1. Change the solution when it gets dirty

2. Clean the tank between uses

3. Don't run the cleaner when empty

4. Check the heating element regularly

When to Clean Your Excavator Parts

Make ultrasonic cleaning part of your regular maintenance:

• When performance seems sluggish

• During seasonal maintenance

• If you notice leaks

• After working in muddy or dusty conditions

• Before putting equipment in storage

Conclusion

Ultrasonic cleaning is a game-changer for maintaining excavator parts. It saves time, cleans better than manual methods, and helps your equipment last longer.

With the right cleaner, solution, and technique, you'll get professional-level results. Your hydraulic system will thank you with smoother operation and fewer breakdowns.

For high-quality ultrasonic cleaners perfect for excavator maintenance, check out Creworks' industrial ultrasonic cleaners.