Cleaning dynamo commutator

[a101960]

I thought that I would do a spot of dynamo maintenance. I remember reading once that lighter fluid is ideal for cleaning the commutator. Before I rush out and buy some is that right? Or should I use something else, and if so what should I use?

[Greybeard]

I thought that I would do a spot of dynamo maintenance. I remember reading once that lighter fluid is ideal for cleaning the commutator. Before I rush out and buy some is that right? Or should I use something else, and if so what should I use?

Greybeard stands well back..."Ok, kick her over" 

[muskrat]

G'day John.
I use 100% alcohol (brotherinlaw makes moonshine). If Ive drunk used it all I use electrical contact cleaner https://www.crcindustries.com.au/products/cleaners/co-contact-cleaner
Cheers

[coater87]

 Whatever you use, make sure the fumes had time to dissipate 

 Way back I watched a 250 h.p. DC motor burn off ethyl acitate fumes from someone using it to clean out brush dust instead of an air wond.

 Probably only burned about 15 seconds, but there were 4 sets of dirty knickers watching it happen. Good thing the brush covers were off, or it may have been worse.

 All I can think is solvent pooled up in the bottom of the motor case and didn't have time to evaporate and fume off before it was started.

 Lee

 

[Black Sheep]

I use a skoosh of electrical contact cleaner and a clean rag. Works a treat. You would almost think it was designed for the job.

[Triton Thrasher]

Some contact cleaners are just a way of marking up the price of alcohol.

[a101960]

Thanks for your replies chaps. Contact cleaner it is then.