Front sprocket area gunk removal tips?

[80GS1000]

Finally managed to get the front sprocket removed tonight on the GS1000 with the aid of a 1/2" rattle gun. There's about 27 years worth of caked on road grime, gunk, and chain lube sitting in that area. Any tips on cleaning techniques/tools/chemicals that would get that area back to a lustrous shine? Thanks in advance.

As it is right now (:shock:

[bexabarr]

Lol I just did that tonight... my whole body is covered in soot. I tried cleaning the cover with warm water and soap... simply made a mess. I ended up cleaning it with gasoline, a tooth brush and an old rag. I still have to finish off the sprocket area... tried it with the toothbrush but gave up at dinner time, should get back to it tomorrow. Any tips would also be great.

[Steve]

Just about any solvent should work. Gasoline, kerosene, engine degreaser, Simple Green, maybe even carb cleaner spray. With the amount of gunk that you have, apply your sovent of choice, wait a while, use a brush on it, apply more solvent. Will take several applications, but the results will be worth it.


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[Tom MLC]

Too funny PJ, looks like a bunch of us are at the same point in the project. I just replaced my chain and sprockets. Front sprocket area was a mess. Looked just like yours, actually.

So here's an after shot for you.


Scrape most of the thick stuff off with a screw driver. Then kerosene and a lot of acid brushes to do the details.

[80GS1000]

Tom-

That picture is major incentive. Thanks for the motivation.

[chef1366]

Just slap the polished sprocket cover back on and forget about it*

[crag antler]

Just slap the polished sprocket cover back on and forget about it*

That would be the easiest way:shock: \\/ :-D