ULTRASONIC CLEANING

Ultrasonic cleaners are by far one of the most thorough methods for cleaning out bearings as they help to break up small bits of debris. When ultrasonic cleaning bearings, it’s generally a good idea to put them in their own container, rather than the main cleaner tub. This method keeps them isolated from any possible contaminants in the main cleaner basin and keeps the overall mess down. The jar method also allows you to remove all bearings from the cleaner easily, shake up the jar if needed, and quickly inspect the bearings from all angles while submerged in the jarred cleaning solution. When using a jar inside an Ultrasonic Cleaner basin, it’s best to fill the basin with an inch or two of water. This helps to keep the jar in place when cleaning, so it doesn’t dance around the basin.

Pre-soak the bearings in a cleaning solution that is free of water, something like 100% alcohol, chain lubricant with a thin consistency, lighter fluid like mentioned previously, or even orange oil if you want a more gentle approach. Once the bearings have soaked for a few minutes, put the jar in the basin of the ultrasonic cleaner and turn it on for about 3 to 5 minutes. Extended lengths of time in the ultrasonic cleaner can potentially damage bearing components, so it’s best to keep the cleaning cycles fairly short. Empty the cleaning solution from the jar, making sure to clear out any gunk or debris.

Fill the jar once more, gently mix it up and place into the ultrasonic cleaner for a second cycle, again between 3 to 5 minutes. Two cycles will generally do the trick, but if you want to be extra thorough you can always do more. I recommend inspecting the bearings after each cycle, once they’re clean and spin freely they’re ready to be re-lubed.