Petrol is dead iffy as a cleaner. It does clean well but the flash point is so low to be dangerous. Too many sources of ignition in a standard shed/garage. Even empty cans can explode.
Parafin/Diesel works ok but watch your skin as you can pick up dermatitis if you're sensitive.
There are safe cleaners about which aren't too pricy if you buy a reasonable amount, (you can store them safely too) and have the advantage of not poisoning you and will dry properly rather than leave a greasy residue.
Best degreaser?
I use WD 40, I buy it from Screwfix in a 5lt container it also comes with a spray bottle, I use it for loads of stuff as well as cleaning engine cases, coating scoots for storage or riding during winter, I keep my engines cases covered in the stuff and it keeps them in great condition and easier to clean.. 
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fairspares
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50 / 50 % white spirit / petrol is excellent for cleaning muck of engines and killing weeds , grass and flowers.
Fairspares Lambretta workshop.
take the engine to the local garage and stick a quid in the jet wash...leaves all the muck at there place. finish off with some gunk and WD40.
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Rotor
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Same here use it on the car engines too, works really well and leaves a film so no rust after, where as a degreaer leaves clean metal to corodeskidmark wrote:I use WD 40, I buy it from Screwfix in a 5lt container it also comes with a spray bottle, I use it for loads of stuff as well as cleaning engine cases, coating scoots for storage or riding during winter, I keep my engines cases covered in the stuff and it keeps them in great condition and easier to clean..
P.
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Spanish Fly
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I guess if I does a good job it doesn't matter what its classed as.Eibar wrote:WD40 (water displacer 40) aint a degreaser its a good cleaner and protector but not a degreaser.
The absolute best 'degreaser' I've ever used is Mr Muscle Oven Cleaner. A bit extreme for the OP's requirement but f*~*ing awesome for shifting baked on black sh*t. Just spray it on leave it for 10 mins, no longer on ally, and wash it off. Simples. I've tried white spirit & parrafin with help of scouring pads or wire brushes and they don't come close to Mr Muscle! Cheap too.
SF