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Understanding Sink Style Parts Washers
Sink style parts washers are essential cleaning equipment designed to remove grease, oil, dirt, and other contaminants from automotive parts and components. Unlike cabinet or drum-style washers, sink style units feature an open-top design with a basin and integrated pump system that circulates cleaning solution through a flexible spigot or brush assembly. This design allows technicians to manually clean parts while the solvent continuously flows, providing effective degreasing without the need for aerosol sprays or manual scrubbing with rags.
Choosing the Right Capacity for Your Needs
Sink style parts washers are available in various tank capacities to accommodate different workspace requirements and cleaning volumes. Smaller benchtop models typically range from 3.5 to 5 gallons and are ideal for home garages, mobile mechanics, or occasional use. Mid-size units generally hold 20 gallons and suit small to medium shops with moderate parts cleaning demands. Larger 40-gallon models provide extended capacity for busy professional shops that clean numerous parts daily. When selecting capacity, consider both your available floor space and how frequently you'll need to refill or change the cleaning solution.
Solvent Types and Compatibility
Modern sink style parts washers are typically designed for use with non-corrosive, water-based (aqueous) cleaning solutions rather than traditional petroleum-based solvents. Aqueous-based cleaners are generally safer, produce fewer hazardous fumes, and comply with environmental regulations in many jurisdictions. Always verify that your parts washer is compatible with your chosen cleaning solution—using incompatible solvents can damage seals, pumps, and tank coatings. Some specialized models, like waterborne-compatible spray gun washers, are specifically engineered for modern waterborne paint removal applications.
Safety Features to Look For
Quality parts washers incorporate several important safety features. Spring-loaded lids with fusible fire links automatically close if temperatures reach dangerous levels, helping to contain potential fires. Self-draining designs and removable work shelves simplify maintenance and reduce the risk of spills. cUL-approved electrical components ensure pump systems meet recognized safety standards. Additionally, proper ventilation in your workspace is essential when operating any parts washing equipment, even with low-VOC water-based solutions.
Pump Performance Considerations
The pump is the heart of any sink style parts washer, circulating cleaning solution from the tank through the spigot or brush assembly. Models typically feature electric pumps operating on standard 110/120V AC power. Flow rates can vary considerably—some units deliver output ranging from 135 to over 260 gallons per hour depending on the model. Higher flow rates generally provide more aggressive cleaning action and faster rinsing, while lower flow rates may be adequate for lighter-duty applications and help conserve solvent.
Maintenance and Longevity
Regular maintenance extends the life of your parts washer and ensures optimal performance. This includes periodically changing or filtering the cleaning solution as it becomes contaminated, inspecting and cleaning the pump screen or filter, and checking hoses and connections for leaks. The parts basket and work shelf should be kept clear of debris that could clog the drain. Proper care of these components helps maintain consistent cleaning effectiveness and prevents costly repairs or premature equipment replacement.
Important: Specifications vary by model. Always check individual product listings and manufacturer documentation for exact details regarding tank capacity, pump output, dimensions, weight capacity, and solvent compatibility before making your purchase decision.
Sink Style Parts Washers
A high quality sink style parts washer is a great item for any shop or home. Whether you own a full shop or you like to tinker in your garage, these items can make your work a lot simpler. If you are looking for an easily transportable smaller option to use with simpler projects, you may want to take a look at the 3.5 Gallon Bench Top option by ATD.
While this machine is small, it is still powerful. Its 110 volt pump has a 135 gallons per hour output. It has a 5 gallon tank capacity, but it only weighs 16.5 pounds, so it is easy to store and transport. This is the perfect choice if you want to bring the power of a shop machine into your own garage at an affordable price.
f you are looking for a larger option for a shop, you should check out the Waterborne Compatible 2 Gun 2 Spray option from Herkules Equipment. This machine will automatically clean two cups and two guns in one minute. It is made in the USA and has a 3 year warranty. If you are looking for a medium sized option, we have those as well.
All of our sink style parts washers come from top brands in the industry, such as ATD and Astro Pneumatic. You can rest assured that when you buy one of our sink style parts washers, you will be getting a dependable and well-made machine.
If you are not sure which of our sink style parts washers is right for you, check out the specifications and descriptions we provide for each of our products. You can give us a call or come by one of our stores if you are still not sure about which option is right for you. Our staff members are always happy to help narrow down your choices.
We offer 6 month 0% interest financing, so even if you are short on cash at the moment, you can get the item you need without paying outrageous interest rates.There is a reason we have been in business since 1987. At Best Buy Automotive, we consistently keep our customers satisfied by providing high quality products at affordable prices.
WARNING: These products can contains certain metals/chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov