I use kingsford charcoal starter fluid. best solvent in the world. one of the cleanest too (i.e. no added chemicals).
pricepoint has a great deal on a set of cone wrenches:
http://www.pricepoint.com/detail/148...ch-7pc-Set.htm
These have lasted me over a year of professional use with not a hint of damage. They're also selling individual ones for $4each.