Cleaning around oil pump

[egraham]

My saw has been leaking and when I took it apart to replace the oil pump this weekend I notice a bunch of dirt, dust, and debris all over the area around the pump and chain brake parts.

I got what I could out with a screwdriver but there is still a mess in there.

Would it be ok to use started fluid or carb cleaner to knock that stuff off?

All of the trash is soaked in oil and caked on. I don't know if air will get it out or just drive it deeper in.

Thanks

[beenthere]

I use Simple Green and a 1" paint brush, and shop vacuum.

[Ada Shaker]

I just use a bit of fuel and a brush to clean all that muck off, dry brush/small screw-driver/scribe etc.. first to get rid of the bulk, then wash it all down with a bit of fuel and a brush. Don't know if carby cleaner will play havoc with oil lines and the like but it brings the carby diaphragms up nice and soft again. If using carby cleaner I'd let it dry out completely first before using it as its quite flammable.

[Jhenderson]

That's the only good use for starting fluid. I clean my air filter with it as well. It dries the oil soaked sawdust immediately and let's it be brushed or blown off.

[joe_indi]

Dish washing liquid and water followed by a dry out with a blower works for me, but the pump and worm will need fresh lubrication.