How to Clean Small Parts, Threads and Hardware

Clean small parts with a brush matched to the part's material and finish. Start with nylon, and step up only when the maker allows.

What you need

Model 46640Mini Brushes, Nylon (3) $3.70 each$2.52 each at 100 or more
Model 46630Mini Brushes, Brass (3) $3.92 each$2.67 each at 100 or more
Model 46650Mini Brushes, Stainless Steel (3) $4.40 each$2.99 each at 100 or more
Model 46843MAXXGRIP PRO® Assorted Small Brush Set (3) $11.83 each$8.04 each at 100 or more

Find the maker's service instruction before choosing a liquid. Photograph washers, spacers and orientation before disassembly, and bag each station.
De-energize and isolate stored energy before removing hardware. Electrical contacts must be confirmed dead.
Identify the parent material and the surface finish: plating, anodize, black oxide, paint. Color and magnetism are weak evidence.
Name the contaminant. Loose dust needs a wipe or nylon. Oil and grease need the compatible cleaner, and the brush only agitates.
Write the finish line: no loose particles, threads not rounded or galled, finish intact, holes clear, part dry.
Test the brush on a hidden spot. Start with the 46640 nylon on unknown or finished parts.
Brush with light pressure along the threads and the finish direction. Rinse and dry as the cleaner requires.
Inspect with magnification. Reject damaged parts and restore any lubricant or threadlocker the maker specifies.

Brass (46630) for bonded deposits on copper, brass or bronze after a hidden test. Stainless (46650) for rust or carbon on plain steel.
Mark each 46650 handle for one duty. Once used on plain steel, never use it on stainless or aluminum.
Use nylon on aluminum, painted, plated or anodized parts, and on polymers.
Do not clean away a functional finish or a pre-applied thread patch.

Torque-to-yield, prevailing-torque and safety-critical fasteners may need replacing. A clean look does not overrule the maker.
Never use carbon steel on stainless. Embedded particles rust.
Wear splash and flying-particle eye protection and the chemical PPE the SDS names. A brass brush does not certify an atmosphere as safe.

Questions about the right tool for your job? Email cs@hydestore.com or call 508-916-6442.