Ultrasonic cleaner recommendations

[Altposaune]

Hello,
I'm looking for recommendations for ultrasonic cleaners. What brand, size, features, etc.
Also, are there any parts typically found on a fishing reel that CANNOT be cleaned in this way?
Many Thanks,
John

[foakes]

https://alantani.com/index.php?topic=30684.0

This will give you some information, John —

Most anything can go into the ultrasonic cleaners —

However...

Type of solutions, time in the solution, bare metal, painted metal, plastics, Bakelite, carbon fiber — all have a learning curve based on experience and caution.

Still have the old L&R that I took in trade from a dental supply firm, over 20 years ago.  Expected it to die — so I bought a 6 Quart SS unit on either eBay or Amazon.  It is still in the box.

For one reel, I typically use 3 jars of solution — using Lacquer Thinner, Dawn HD Dish Soap, and Simple Green cut 50/50 with water.

Key is the solid state electronics & transducer power — plus a SS unit with no plastic reservoir.

Generally, the solutions can be reused, filtered, or added to about 5 or 6 times before refilling.

Best, Fred

[Altposaune]

Fred,

Thanks for this information. I thought about emailing you directly with this question but I think I've bugged you enough lately.

I checked out L&R cleaners. Pricey but they look really nice. I'll have to save up for one.

Thanks again,
John

[foakes]

I wouldn't have gotten a L&R either, John —

But it was part of a trade deal for some reel work from a local Dental Equipment Supply house.

The one I got as a backup is the one pictured above on eBay for $189 & free shipping.

I prefer manual analog dial controls as compared to digital push buttons.  It is simpler and more durable for the long run.

Once you start using one — the quality, thoroughness, ease, and capabilit6 of your reel jobs will increase by perhaps 5 times — and be much easier.

These are not necessary — but they are a professional time-saver.

Best, Fred

Best, Fred

[Altposaune]

Fred,

You said "pictured above" but I don't see a photo anywhere. Am I overlooking something?

Thanks,
John

[Altposaune]

Fred,

There are a few used L&R units on EBay at a price that I can afford. I looked at new units from other manufacturers and they all get some bad reviews. It sounds like your well used  L&R unit is reliable and solidly built. I don't really want by something that's inexpensive but not made to last.

John

[foakes]

Fred,

You said "pictured above" but I don't see a photo anywhere. Am I overlooking something?

Thanks,
John

If you click on the link at the beginning of my response — it will open up a previous discussion plus a picture of an eBay offering that I purchased.

Best, Fred

[Altposaune]

Fred,
Got it! I'm still learning how to use the forum.
Thanks,
John

[roadrunner]

fyi  bought a cheaper one at harbor freight to start.  did not last long.
  fyi to any thinking about harbor freighht models.  not replacement parts available.  trash when a  problem pops up

[foakes]

The best value and least expensive tool —- is the one you don't need to replace.

Any experienced Pro, in nearly any line of work —- will tell us this.

Research, ratings, and recommendations —- will help in our selection of tools.

My L&R just gave up the ghost a month ago.  I picked up one made in China with decent reviews for $125.

So far, it works about twice as effectively, and quicker than the L&R.  Parts come out much cleaner, and require little in the way of additional cleaning afterwards.

We will see how well it lasts.

But honestly, if it only lasts 3 years instead of 20 —- it is well worth considering.

Best, Fred

[handi2]

I have one of the cheaper ones. Still going after 5 years