I have 4 Harbor Freight 3 gallon parts washers. 3 of them are for storage. This is because the minute you put Kerosene in them, the motor starts melting. Just exactly like the Wicked Witch. So, I purchased the last one I bought and then decided I have had enough of that horrible woman, and purchased a Little Giant replacement pump.
This pump is made to use the very highly caustic Kerosene or most any petroleum derivative. You see, it's not really HF or Northern's fault. They are being government compliant, meaning WATER based fluids only. It took me a few hours and a few runs to the plumber to get the parts to convert it over, but now it works all the time and doesn't fail every few weeks. I've had this parts washer for over a year now and it works every time! What a concept! I gave the water based fluids a try, and I just wasn't sold. Time is important to me and this method cuts to the chase.
So, $40 or so for the tank, $120 for the correct pump, another $20 in misc parts for the conversion. Not cheap, but you never have to do it again! For engine rebuilding, its small but efficient and all I really need. DO try to use water based for awhile when you first get your tank. If that works for you, then no need to spend more money.
