Topic: Small Harbor Freight Steam Cleaner?

[ZTatZAU]

Just wondering if anyone has tried this small portable steam cleaner from Harbor Freight?

https://www.harborfreight.com/1200-watt-handheld-steam-cleaner-58653.html?_br_psugg_q=steam+cleaners

I was thinking of using something like this to clean the grease and crud that has collected at the bottom aft end of the engine case, frame, swing arm, etc.

Comments, reviews, advice, appreciated
ZT (CB750 Apprentice)

[M 750K6]

I find a Liberal spray of WD40 or GT85 and a wipecwith a rag (over a screwdriver on narrow areas) gets most of it off. Usually needs a few repeat sprays and wipes, but it gets there. Then wipe over with a mild degreaser.

[BenelliSEI]

Spray bottle filled with Varsol, spread out some cardboard and grab a few different size scrapers.  Hot water, soap and a hose. See Magpie’s post on “What did you do to your bike today” he put up in the past hours.

[Finnigan]

I used it on my MVAgusta, never 'washed' the bike with water just used this and worked great. One of those items from HB that your surprised they don't sell for more.

[HondaMan]

I use the quarter-car-wash. They have 'Solvent', which sprays some real good soapy-gooey stuff, and I apply it to a warmed-up bike, let it sit for a few minutes, then go to blasting with the high-pressure mode(s). Works well.

[Tracksnblades1]

Zep  4358bio or 965 Truck and Auto wash detergent…sometimes called pink soap..

Takes bugs, road grime, diesel soot, and  stains off with hot water…

Works well with a Kartcher hot water pressure washer

[beemerbum]

I use the quarter-car-wash. They have 'Solvent', which sprays some real good soapy-gooey stuff, and I apply it to a warmed-up bike, let it sit for a few minutes, then go to blasting with the high-pressure mode(s). Works well.

Are you not concerned about bearings, electrical components etc using the high pressure blast?

[Flyin900]

Just wondering if anyone has tried this small portable steam cleaner from Harbor Freight?

https://www.harborfreight.com/1200-watt-handheld-steam-cleaner-58653.html?_br_psugg_q=steam+cleaners

I was thinking of using something like this to clean the grease and crud that has collected at the bottom aft end of the engine case, frame, swing arm, etc.

Comments, reviews, advice, appreciated
ZT (CB750 Apprentice)

I use a Canadian version and it is excellent for cleaning hard to reach areas without using a pressure washer and is great for bugs etc.
My main use though is for carb rebuilds, as the live steam is second to none for cleaning the outer bodies and inner tiny passages. I use it in conjunction with a ultrasonic cleaner and it will dissolve any hard to clear varnish that ultrasonic cleaners may not alway get clean.

Best $40 tool you can buy for the variety of uses even beyond motorcycles. 

[ZTatZAU]

Thanks everyone!  I appreciate your replies.

ZT

[Deltarider]

Serious warning! The only time I've used a steam washer on my CB500 at a gas station, these were the results.
1) Bike didn't start. Sparkplugcaps and their leads were soaked.
2) Drive chain had lost all its lube.
3) Soon thereafter I had to replace the rear wheel bearings.
4) Later I had to replace the rear sprocket carrier (final drive flange). The inside was worn. Lube was gone.
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,150358.msg1715764.html#msg1715764
Never again! A steam washer is one of these products that make you drool. Before ordering you only imagine the wonderful things it will do for you. In practice you may have to face disappointment.