Redneck Sonic Cleaner

[Clockguy]

For cleaning the dial indicator I used mineral spirits for about 1/2 hour.

Having done antique clock repair for years, I was using an Ultra-sonic cleaning machine which not only cleaned each and every clock part but left the brass parts with a like new shine/patina to them. It would not eradicate the tarnish or rust stain from any steel shafts or anything made of mild steel, but it was great for having brass looking like the parts were brand spanking new out of the box!

My question to you is, did the sonic treatment completely remove all of the tarnish, fingerprints, and dirt/oil from the brass on that dial indicator? We had a number of solutions available to the clock repair trade which were made to standards which would not harm any of the parts involved in the cleaning. There were also solutions which made cleaning mild steel parts such as shafts, levers, and pins and screws easier to clean completely.

I would hate to find out, after all these years, that I could have done the same job I spent over $1500.00 for in specialized equipment and solvents with a plastic pan and an old hair clippers! But, I fear that, if this answer isn't available, I won't get another good night's sleep wondering .........