Weldtite Dirtwash degreaser

Weldtite’s dirt wash citrus degreaser is intended primarily for chains but it is quite useful for clearing gunge and grime from other components including derailleurs. While it certainly leaves behind the sweet smell of oranges, it lacks the cleaning prowess of brands derived from more concentrated, natural ingredients. Latex examination gloves are a sensible precaution too, given splashes felt harsh on the skin, and the formula wasn’t particularly kind to a nylon bush left soaking for a couple of days.

Applied neat via brush or chain bath, for best results work the solution deep into the chain or components before flushing through with clean water, repeating as necessary. On less complex lubes such as motor oil, it seems fairly effective, leaving both inner and side plates sparkling after a few minutes.

However, more sophisticated brews-especially marine and Teflon greases required a longer soak before agitating with a stiff brush and flushing through with clean tap water. From there, it’s just a case of drying thoroughly using a clean rag before re-lubricating.

For commercial applications or those with a big fleet, the litre size represents good value and some experimentation suggests in a pinch, pouring some of it neat into a marked trigger spray bottle, diluted with water makes a fairly effective bike wash when applied liberally so long as you minimise contact with seals and similarly delicate parts.

Verdict

Fairly effective and versatile chain cleaner but nothing special