Paint thinner (mineral spirits) works wonders for general cleaning/degreasing. The mineral spirits "dries" some rubber parts like some brake system dust boots, etc. Remove or replace them if they get saturated. I would see if my parts washer pump says anything about using mineral spirits, to prevent pump seal damage. It should be OK, though.
Mineral Spirits won't eat most paints once they dry. For example, I just painted my 235 oil pan, but I left the inside coated in machine oil to prevent rust. When I'm ready to use it, I can clean the light oil & dust out with paint thinner, and it won't eat the paint on the outside.
In my experience, mineral spirits is less explosive and corrosive than kerosene or other solvents. Thats why I use it. But if you try some non-flammable stuff, let us know how it does. Most petroleum-based cleaners (mineral spirits, gas, kero, acetone, etc) are not eco-friendly. (Did I just say that?)
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