Originally Posted by
bobotech
I'm thinking of using something like brake cleaner or carb cleaner but I don't want to damage the plastics used in the brifter or do others have better chemical suggestions?
Stay away from the brake cleaner. Most will damage any non-metal parts and can remove paint. WD-40 is about one of the best chemicals for flushing brifters. It dissolves grease, won't harm any brifter parts or paint and stays wet for awhile so you can soak the stubborn gunk. Best to spray, let sit for a few hours and spray again to flush out the remaining spooge. If you have access to an air compressor blow out the internals to dry the WD-40 and apply some proper lube or if no air is available let the WD-40 dry out a couple days before lubing.