Powerbuilt Parts Washer
Rich’s Rating:
Every shop needs a parts washer. Traditional metal units are available
from such sources as Tractor Supply, Northern Tool, and Harbor Freight.
I got this unit from Sam’s Club online; other online vendors also carry it.
Here’s why I chose the Powerbuilt over the traditional designs:
1.
It’s the right size for bicycle parts;
2.
The hose is easy to aim;
3.
The integrated drain basket is convenient as
are the tool/brush holders built into the lid
and the parts bin just below them;
4.
The stopper in the wash basin and the
clamshell lid with double clasps allow the
unit to be moved around without spilling
degreaser;
5.
There’s a drain hole for easy, mess-free emptying of spent
degreaser;
6.
It’s quiet;
7.
Pump volume is just right to provide maximum cleaning with
minimum splashing (items 6 and 7 became apparent only after I
used the unit);
8.
The 6-foot power cord gives me enough latitude in where I set up the unit.
The Powerbuilt parts washer is to be
used only with water-based
(aqueous) cleaners. I like the
ProForce Heavy Duty Degreaser
sold by Sam’s. I cut it with equal
parts water for use in the
parts
washer and it does a
fine job, although it
gets a little foamy after
the unit’s been
running awhile.
Capacity is 15 liters,
which is 3.96
gallons, so 2 gallons
of ProForce cut
50/50 with water
does the trick. I
rinse parts in water
after degreasing
and blow them
dry with
compressed air.
There’s no built-in light and no
on/off switch. Despite this I give the Powerbuilt parts washer a 5 out of 5 Big Rings
because there are easy, cost-effective solutions. I added a clamp-on shop light and
simply plug in and unplug the unit when I use it. If the outlet were tough to reach I’d
use a power strip with a toggle switch and plug the washer into that. Adding these
features from the factory would nudge the price up and I like the price point of the unit
as it is.
Some metal units have their own stands. The Powerbuilt does not. I have bench
space for the washer; you may not. You can close the lid and move the unit to the
bench and back to the floor or wherever you store it fairly easily. Or you may want to
get a microwave cart or similar stand to leave it set up all the time.
Dimensions are 21 x 31 inches/53 x 79 cm. It’s 9 inches/23 cm high with the lid closed
and 28 inches/71 cm high with it open.