I would think any of the following would be better...Hot tank, Steam Clean, Engine Degreaser and Pressure Wash, Hand wash in a Parts Cleaner, etc.
I let all of my small stuff soak in a pale of Economy Lacquer Thinner. It will soften the hard thick gunk if left soaking overnight making it easy to brush away in the morning.
Mike B
Mike Boteler
1956 Chevy 3100 Resto Rod 1952 Willys M38 Army Jeep 1983 Jeep CJ7 Laredo 1984 Jeep CJ7 +++++ Silver Spring, MD