So... I do some restorations on old Speed Kings, and one of the things I like to be sure of is that the insides of the towers are clean. There's ALWAYS some caked on gunk near the bottom. I can usually get most of it out, but there comes a point where I have to settle, applying the restorer's axiom "perfection is the enemy of the good."
I don't think it means two hoots in performance once it's reassembled, but...
JR tipped me to the fact that the old SK grease was wax based, so heat would help, and it does.
But I'm wondering if I could put a good solvent into the tower and let it soak for a while (bottom screw in, pour in through the top).
What is the best solvent for old gunk like that? Acetone? Gasoline? Mineral spirits? Boiling water?