Cleaning the master cylinders and calipers

[Skinner]

I'm restoring my 81 650GL and have made it to the brakes. I bled them and I think it may be the original fluid that was in there. It was the colour of coca cola and there's a lot of rust and other grime in the reservoir and master cylinders. I've disassembled the rear master cylinder but need another snap ring tool to get at the tiny one in the front. And I haven't disassembled the calipers yet but I expect more of the same rust and grime. So what is the best cleaning solution to use? I will likely end up replacing all the rubber parts, but want to get the rest clean as new.

Thanks!
K

[Steve]

I usuallly use brake cleaner, but then wipe it all down with fresh brake fluid before re-assembly.

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[GateKeeper]

brake cleaner, would be a good start, then a brass wire wheel brush on a dremel for that white crusty stuff, but don't over do it and damage the piston or the claiper, use a wooden pick, or a dentis pick but be careful not to gouge the areas where the seals go....

final clean with brake fluid, and nothing else

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[Skinner]

Thanks Steve. I just happen to have a can in the garage - one less thing to buy. But I do get to buy a new snap ring plier tomorrow. New tools always makes a good day.

Cheers!
K

[ShadowFocus603]

I just went through the brakes on my 750L and when i tore the calipers apart I stripped them bare and dunked them in the sonic cleaner with a 3:1 water vinegar solution. Turned the heat all the way up to 60C and ran them about an hour each, including hardware brackets etc. Rebuilt them with new seals and pistons and paint.
Final Result

[Skinner]

Those look fantastic. Nice work!

[Nessism]

Simple Green and water.

[ShadowFocus603]

A friendly tip. Make sure you wrap the threads of the bleeders with teflon tape. I didn't and it was the culprit of an air leak I was experiencing during bleeding. Live and learn I guess.