A strong bulk brake cleaner gives a shop enough product for repeat maintenance while matching its preferred format, formula, and use requirements. CRC Brakleen 5 Gallon stands out for buyers who want a non-chlorinated, 50-state formula in a large pail; aerosol cases suit users who prefer ready-to-spray cans. This roundup compares five-gallon liquids, one-gallon containers, and multi-can packs, including options labeled non-flammable, fast-drying, or low-odor.
Those descriptions are product-listed claims, not a substitute for checking the label and safety data sheet for your application. Pay particular attention to local restrictions: some formulas list specific states or regions where they are unavailable.
Choose based on how much cleaner you use, how you dispense it, and which formula is appropriate for your workplace and parts.
CRC Brakleen 5 Gallon is the strongest overall fit for buyers seeking brake cleaner in bulk: it combines a five-gallon pail with a non-chlorinated, 50-state formula and residue-free cleaning. Its listed applications include brake linings, pads, clutches, wheel cylinders, springs, and other brake components. If you prefer a five-gallon liquid with a specifically listed non-chlorinated formula for all 50 states, Johnsen’s 5 Gallon is a close alternative; Zep 5 Gallon is listed for workplace and industrial use.
Our Top Picks
Best OverallIts five-gallon pail suits sustained use, while the listed non-chlorinated 50-state formula and residue-free feature make it a versatile bulk pick.
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All-State FormulaThis five-gallon container is specifically described as non-chlorinated and formulated to meet VOC requirements in all 50 states.
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Industrial PailThe five-gallon liquid is designated for workplace and industrial use and lists brake, lining, pad, and metal-component applications.
View on Amazon- Largest Aerosol Case Denco 1930 Cleaner
- 36-Can Case SQ Non-Chlorinated Cleaner
Compare Bulk Brake Cleaner Options
| # | Product | Weight | Volume | Size | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1. CRC Brakleen 5 GallonBest Overall | 35 lb | 5 gallons | 640 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) | View on Amazon |
| 2 | 2. Johnsen's 5 GallonAll-State Formula | 37.5 lb | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 3 | 3. Zep Brake WashIndustrial Pail | 32.4 lb | 5 gallons | 639 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) | View on Amazon |
| 4 | 4. Denco 1930 CleanerLargest Aerosol Case | 14 lb | 13 fluid oz | 13 oz (Pack of 48) | View on Amazon |
| 5 | 5. SQ Non-Chlorinated Cleaner36-Can Case | 51 lb | — | — | View on Amazon |
| 6 | 6. CRC Brakleen 1 GallonNon-flammable liquid workflow | 11.5 lb | 1 gallons | 128 oz (Pack of 1) | View on Amazon |
| 7 | 7. CRC Brakleen 50-State GallonNon-chlorinated gallon cleaner | 4.5 lb | 1 gallons | 128 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) | View on Amazon |
| 8 | 8. Quinton Hazell QH6Large-can spray replenishment | 4.8 kg | 600 ml | 20.3 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) | View on Amazon |
| 9 | 9. GUNK Brake Parts CleanerNon-flammable chlorinated spray | 16 oz | — | 1 Count (Pack of 12) | View on Amazon |
| 10 | 10. Johnsen's 2417 CleanerABS and drum brake spray | 13.97 lb | — | — | View on Amazon |
Detailed Reviews: Best Brake Cleaner In Bulk

#1 · Best Overall
1. CRC Brakleen 5 Gallon
- Weight: 35 lb
- Volume: 5 gallons
- Size: 640 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Best for: Five-gallon CRC shop supply.
Why it ranks #1: Its five-gallon pail suits sustained use, while the listed non-chlorinated 50-state formula and residue-free feature make it a versatile bulk pick.
CRC Brakleen 5052 offers a five-gallon, non-chlorinated 50-state formula for shops that need a bulk supply of liquid brake cleaner. Its listed applications span brake linings, pads, clutches, wheel cylinders, and springs, supporting varied service-bay tasks.
The pail format provides a larger shared supply than single-can products, making it suitable for recurring cleaning work where liquid dispensing fits the process. CRC lists applications including spring and wedge brakes, cylinders, drums, shoes, calipers, clutch discs, and disc brake pads. The residue-free specification supports a clean finish across those jobs, while the non-chlorinated 50-state formula is a stated formulation detail. The product information also lists a flash point below zero degrees Fahrenheit, a relevant handling consideration.
- Five-gallon liquid pail
- Non-chlorinated 50-state formula
- Residue-free cleaner for varied brake and clutch components
- Listed for springs, wedge brakes, cylinders, drums, shoes, calipers, and pads
- The listed flash point is below zero degrees Fahrenheit.
Skip it if you want a one-gallon non-flammable liquid cleaner; CRC Brakleen 05090 is listed in that size and as non-flammable.
This suits shops seeking a five-gallon CRC supply for recurring brake and clutch cleaning across many listed components. The 50-state formula and residue-free specification are useful, but its very low listed flash point warrants careful handling.
Full product details
| Brand | CRC |
|---|---|
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Item Volume | 5 gallons |
| Item Weight | 35 pounds |
| Manufacturer | CRC |
| Material Features | Unscented |
| Model Number | 5052 |
| Size | 640 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
| Special Features | Residue Free |
| Warranty Description | limited warranty |
| Additional Information | Important information Ingredients Brake Cleaner |
Listed on Amazon as: CRC Brakleen 1003667 Brake Parts Cleaner Non-Chlorinated 50 State Formula, 5 Gallon, [1 Pack]
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #2: This five-gallon container is specifically described as non-chlorinated and formulated to meet VOC requirements in all 50 states.
Johnsen's 2415C combines a five-gallon liquid format with a non-chlorinated formula stated to meet VOC requirements in all 50 states. It removes oil, grease, brake fluid, and contaminants without residue, making the pail a bulk option for varied brake service.
The five-gallon quantity suits repeated cleaning where a larger liquid supply fits the workflow better than individual aerosol cans. Johnsen's lists use on all ABS, disc, and drum brakes, giving buyers clear compatibility for common brake work. Its no-residue claim supports a clean finish after removing oil, grease, and brake fluid. The product is identified as a 50-state formula, with additional facts describing versions for areas with differing VOC restrictions; buyers should select according to the stated regional formulation information.
- Five-gallon liquid format
- Non-chlorinated 50-state formula
- Removes oil, grease, brake fluid, and contaminants quickly
- Listed for ABS, disc, and drum brakes; leaves no residue
- The five-gallon pail is a heavy bulk container at 37.5 pounds.
Skip it if you need smaller ready-to-spray cans instead of a pail; Johnsen's 2417 comes in a 12-pack of 14-ounce aerosols.
Choose this pail for users who need a large supply of non-chlorinated cleaner for ABS, disc, and drum brake work. Its 50-state formulation is a key fit point, while the bulk liquid format requires appropriate handling and storage.
Full product details
| Brand | Johnsen's |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 37.5 pounds |
| Item model number | 2415C |
| Manufacturer | Johnsen's |
| Part Number | 2415C |
| Model | 2415C |
| Package Dimensions | 15 x 12 x 12 inches |
Listed on Amazon as: Johnsen's (2415C) Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner – 5 Gallon
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#3 · Industrial Pail
3. Zep Brake Wash
- Weight: 32.4 lb
- Volume: 5 gallons
- Size: 639 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Best for: Industrial five-gallon pail.
Why it ranks #3: The five-gallon liquid is designated for workplace and industrial use and lists brake, lining, pad, and metal-component applications.
Zep Brake Wash comes in a five-gallon pail, giving industrial and workplace users a substantial supply of non-chlorinated liquid cleaner. Its stated compatibility with metal, rubber, linings, and pads makes it a practical option for cleaning a broad range of brake components.
The fast-acting solvent degreaser washes away grease, oil, brake fluid, and impacted dust, while the product description says it evaporates quickly and completely without harming metal, rubber, linings, or pads. Zep lists brake drums, discs, wheel cylinders, master cylinders, return springs, and adjusters among suitable applications, helping workplaces cover multiple service tasks with one cleaner. The five-gallon pail suits bulk liquid use, but the listing explicitly limits it to workplace and industrial use.
- Five-gallon liquid pail
- Non-chlorinated solvent degreaser
- Listed for metal, rubber, linings, and pads
- Targets grease, oil, brake fluid, and impacted dust across many brake components
- The listing specifies workplace and industrial use only.
Skip it if you need an aerosol can for occasional direct spraying; Denco 1930 is a 13-ounce spray sold in a 48-pack.
This is suited to workplace and industrial users handling recurring brake-cleaning jobs who want five gallons of liquid cleaner. Its broad component compatibility is useful, but the stated workplace-only use is a firm boundary for selection.
Full product details
| Brand | Zep |
|---|---|
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Item Volume | 5 gallons |
| Item Weight | 32.4 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Zep |
| Size | 639 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
| Special Features | Concentrated |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Listed on Amazon as: Zep Brake Wash Liquid Non-Clorinated Parts Cleaner – 5 Gallon (1 Pail)
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#4 · Largest Aerosol Case
4. Denco 1930 Cleaner
- Weight: 14 lb
- Volume: 13 fluid oz
- Size: 13 oz (Pack of 48)
Best for: Multi-can shop replenishment.
Why it ranks #4: Its 48-pack of 13-ounce cans supplies a substantial ready-to-spray quantity, with non-chlorinated cleaning and quick evaporation listed.
A 48-can case of 13-ounce non-chlorinated spray gives busy shops a substantial ready-to-use supply for brake and parts cleaning. Its quick-evaporation formula helps move from spraying dirty metal components to the next maintenance step without waiting on a slow-drying cleaner.
Denco specifies cleaning power for brakes, engine parts, tools, and other dirty metal surfaces, so the case can serve several routine shop tasks rather than brakes alone. The spray form supports direct application, while the listed quick evaporation helps parts dry efficiently after grease, grime, or brake fluid is cut through. Low odor is another stated feature for repeated shop use. The 48-can quantity suits work areas that prefer individual aerosol containers over a shared bulk liquid pail.
- 48 cans, each containing 13 fluid ounces
- Non-chlorinated cleaner for brake parts and metal components
- Quick evaporation supports efficient cleaning workflow
- Low-odor formula also tackles grease, grime, and brake fluid
- Aerosol cans provide less bulk volume per container than a liquid pail.
Skip it if you prefer one shared liquid container for dispensing; CRC Brakleen 05090 comes in a one-gallon liquid format.
Choose this case for a shop that wants individual spray cans for brakes, engine parts, tools, and everyday metal cleanup. Its quick evaporation and low odor suit repeated tasks, but aerosol format may not match a pail-based workflow.
Full product details
| Brand | DENCO DISTRIBUTING, INC. |
|---|---|
| Item Form | Spray |
| Item Volume | 13 fluid ounces |
| Item Weight | 14 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Denco Distributing, Inc. |
| Material Feature | Quick Evaporation |
| Material Features | Quick Evaporation |
| Size | 13 Ounce (Pack of 48) |
| Special Features | Low Odor, Quick Evaporation |
| Additional Information | Important information Ingredients Acetone, Heptane, Carbon Dioxide |
Listed on Amazon as: Denco 1930 Brake & Parts Cleaner, Non-Chlorinated, 13oz, 48-Pack
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #5: The 36-pack of 14.5-ounce cans works for buyers wanting bulk aerosol, but its listing excludes or restricts sales in multiple regions.
SQ supplies 36 cans of 14.5-ounce non-chlorinated brake cleaner, providing a substantial aerosol case for repeated shop jobs. The fast-acting degreaser evaporates quickly and leaves no residue, while its listed regional restrictions make location an important buying consideration.
The 36-can quantity allows users to keep individual spray containers available across multiple tasks, and the strong degreaser is specified for fast cleaning. Quick evaporation and a no-residue finish support moving from cleaning to the next maintenance step without waiting for residue to clear. SQ states that this formula is highly flammable and identifies several restricted regions, with a compliant version supplied to some listed locations. Check the product's stated regional availability before selecting this specific formula.
- Thirty-six 14.5-ounce cans
- Non-chlorinated formula
- Fast-acting degreaser evaporates quickly and leaves no residue
- Made in the USA
- The formula is highly flammable and is restricted in listed regions.
Skip it if you are in a restricted area and need a clearly listed 50-state formula; CRC Brakleen 5051 is labeled 50-state.
This case suits buyers seeking a large supply of non-chlorinated aerosol cleaner for repeated brake jobs. Its quick evaporation is useful for workflow, but regional restrictions and the highly flammable designation must fit your location and handling needs.
Full product details
| Brand | SQ |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 51 pounds |
| Item model number | SQANCBPC |
| Manufacturer | Sicamu, Inc |
| Part Number | SQANCBPCX3 |
| Model | SQ Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner |
| Dimensions | 22 x 12 x 17 inches |
| Additional Information | Important information |
Listed on Amazon as: SQ Brake Cleaner Non Chlorinated, 36 Pack, 14.5 OZ per can.
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#6
6. CRC Brakleen 1 Gallon
- Weight: 11.5 lb
- Volume: 1 gallons
- Size: 128 oz (Pack of 1)
Best for: Non-flammable liquid workflow.
Why it ranks #6: The one-gallon liquid is listed as non-flammable and residue-free, a useful combination for buyers who need less than a five-gallon pail.
CRC Brakleen 05090 pairs a one-gallon liquid format with a non-flammable formula, giving shops a bulk cleaner for brake work without relying on aerosol cans. Its residue-free claim and broad brake-system application list help make it a fit for varied service-bay jobs.
The liquid gallon format suits a shop that wants a larger shared container, while the formula is listed to remove grease, brake dust, brake fluids, oils, and other contaminants. CRC names ABS, disc and drum brakes, calipers, clutch discs, pads, linings, and springs among its applications, giving technicians a broad range of listed jobs. The residue-free specification supports a clean finish, and the non-flammable designation is a key distinction for buyers selecting a cleaner.
- One-gallon liquid container
- Non-flammable formula
- Targets grease, brake dust, fluids, oils, and other contaminants
- Listed for ABS, disc, drum, clutch, caliper, and spring applications
- The one-gallon container is smaller than the five-gallon bulk pails.
Skip it if you need a five-gallon non-chlorinated pail; CRC Brakleen 5052 is the larger listed option.
This fits service bays seeking a non-flammable liquid cleaner for multiple brake-system components, including clutch discs and calipers. Choose it when a gallon container suits the workflow; its stated format is not a five-gallon bulk pail.
Full product details
| Brand | CRC |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Item |
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Item Volume | 1 gallons |
| Item Weight | 11.5 pounds |
| Manufacturer | CRC |
| Material Features | Eco-Friendly |
| Model Number | 05090 |
| Size | 128 Ounce (Pack of 1) |
| Special Features | Residue Free |
| Warranty Description | limited warranty |
| Additional Information | Important information Ingredients Brake Cleaner |
Listed on Amazon as: CRC Brakleen Brake Parts Cleaner – Non-Flammable, Fast Drying – 1 Gallon
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#7
7. CRC Brakleen 50-State Gallon
- Weight: 4.5 lb
- Volume: 1 gallons
- Size: 128 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Best for: Non-chlorinated gallon cleaner.
Why it ranks #7: This one-gallon, non-chlorinated formula offers residue-free cleaning, though its smaller container is less suited to sustained bulk use.
CRC Brakleen 05051 is a one-gallon, non-chlorinated formula labeled for 50-state use, giving buyers a bulk liquid option with a stated regulatory distinction. It removes brake fluid, grease, oil, and other contaminants from brake parts and related components.
The gallon bottle provides liquid cleaner for shop use, while the listed residue-free property supports a clean finish after degreasing. CRC names linings, calipers, drums, and other brake parts as targets, allowing one container to serve several component-cleaning tasks. Its non-chlorinated 50-state formula is a specific selection point for buyers comparing formulations. The product is also identified as extremely flammable, a handling consideration that matters when planning where and how to use it.
- One-gallon liquid bottle
- Non-chlorinated 50-state formula
- Removes brake fluid, grease, oil, and other contaminants
- Residue-free cleaning for linings, calipers, drums, and brake parts
- The formula is identified as extremely flammable.
Skip it if you require a non-flammable formula; CRC Brakleen 05090 is listed as non-flammable and comes in a one-gallon size.
Choose this gallon for buyers who want non-chlorinated liquid cleaner for linings, calipers, drums, and other brake components. Its 50-state formula is a useful distinction, but the extremely flammable designation must suit your handling arrangements.
Full product details
| Brand | CRC |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1 gallons |
| Container Type | Bottle |
| Included Components | Item |
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Item Volume | 1 gallons |
| Item Weight | 4.5 pounds |
| Manufacturer | CRC |
| Material Features | Fragrance Free |
| Model Number | 5051 |
| Size | 128 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) |
| Special Features | Residue Free |
| Warranty Description | Not Available |
| Additional Information | Important information Ingredients Acetone, Carbon dioxide, distillates (petroleum), light distillate hydrotreating process, low-boiling, heptane, branched, cyclic and linear, naphtha (petroleum), hydrotreated light, n-heptane |
Listed on Amazon as: CRC Brakleen Non-Chlorinated Brake Parts Cleaner – 50 State Formula, 1 Gal, 05051
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#8
8. Quinton Hazell QH6
- Weight: 4.8 kg
- Volume: 600 ml
- Size: 20.3 Fl Oz (Pack of 12)
Best for: Large-can spray replenishment.
Why it ranks #8: The 12-pack of 20.3-ounce non-chlorinated aerosol cans offers fast drying and a precision nozzle, but less total volume than larger cases.
Twelve 20.3-ounce cans give Quinton Hazell QH6 a larger-per-can aerosol format for teams that want ready-to-spray brake and parts cleaner in quantity. Its fast-drying, non-chlorinated formula dissolves oils, brake dust, and lubricants, with a residue-free finish.
Each 600 ml can includes a precision spray nozzle, and the listed high-power spray can reach hard-to-access areas around metal parts and equipment. Fast drying and a residue-free finish help keep the cleaning sequence moving after degreasing brakes, clutches, or other components. The low-odor, non-chlorinated formula is another stated feature for shop use. Because this is a 12-can aerosol multipack rather than a shared liquid pail, it suits users who value individual spray containers.
- Twelve 20.3-ounce cans
- Precision spray nozzle and high-power spray reach hard-to-access areas
- Fast-drying formula leaves a residue-free finish
- Non-chlorinated, low-odor degreaser for brake and metal parts
- The multipack uses aerosol cans rather than a bulk liquid pail.
Skip it if you want to dispense cleaner from a five-gallon pail; Zep Brake Wash is listed in that liquid format.
This suits shops that want larger aerosol cans for brake, clutch, tool, and metal-part cleaning, especially where directed spray helps reach tight areas. Consider the can format and listed 30% VOC specification when choosing it for your workflow.
Full product details
| Brand | Quinton Hazell |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 7200 ml |
| Item Form | Aerosol |
| Item Volume | 600 ml |
| Item Weight | 4.8 kg |
| Manufacturer | Quinton Hazell |
| Material Features | Eco-Friendly |
| Free From | Chlorine Free |
| Model Number | QHB600 |
| Recommended Uses | Clean and Degrease Metal Tools, Equipment and Parts, Degrease Brake Rotors From Oil, Grease and Contaminents, High Power Spray Enables Cleaning of Hard to Reach Areas., Professional and DIY use, Safe for use on: Brake Rotors, Shoes, Drums, Clutches, Engines, Chains, Tools and more. |
| Size | 20.3 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) |
| Special Features | 30% VOC, Fast Drying Formula, Eco-Friendly Non-Chlorinated, Low Odor, Precision Spray Nozzle Included, XL 600ml / 20.3 Fl Oz Cans |
Listed on Amazon as: Quinton Hazell Brake Cleaner Spray Can, 20.3 fl oz (12 Pack)
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#9
9. GUNK Brake Parts Cleaner
- Weight: 16 oz
- Size: 1 Count (Pack of 12)
Best for: Non-flammable chlorinated spray.
Why it ranks #9: This 12-can case offers spray convenience and a listed non-flammable chlorinated formula, but the 19-ounce case is smaller than other bulk options.
GUNK pairs a chlorinated formula with a non-flammable designation in a 12-can case, giving buyers a specific combination for brake cleaning. The fast-drying spray targets pads, rotors, and calipers, lifting brake dust, grease, and oil while leaving no residue.
The case format supplies individual 19-ounce cans, which can be distributed across work areas or kept ready for direct application. GUNK says the cleaner penetrates and lifts dust, grease, and oil from brake components, helping reduce effort during routine maintenance. Its listed use on pads, rotors, and calipers gives a focused application range, while the no-residue claim and fast-drying formula support a clean finish. Buyers should weigh the chlorinated formulation alongside the non-flammable designation when choosing a cleaner.
- Twelve 19-ounce spray cans
- Chlorinated formula is listed as non-flammable
- Fast-drying cleaner for pads, rotors, and calipers
- Lifts brake dust, grease, and oil and leaves no residue
- The formula is chlorinated, unlike the listed non-chlorinated alternatives.
Skip it if you require a non-chlorinated spray; Denco 1930 is a 13-ounce non-chlorinated aerosol sold in a 48-pack.
Pick this case if your shop wants a non-flammable, fast-drying spray for pads, rotors, and calipers. The chlorinated formula is the key boundary, so it does not fit buyers specifically seeking non-chlorinated cleaner.
Full product details
| Brand | Gunk |
|---|---|
| Item Form | Spray |
| Item Weight | 16 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Gunk |
| Material Feature | Unscented |
| Material Features | Unscented |
| Model Number | M720-12PK |
| Size | 1 Count (Pack of 12) |
| Warranty Description | 90 Day |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: GUNK Brake Parts Cleaner – Non-Flammable Brake Cleaner Spray Can – Fast-Drying Formula for Pads, Rotors & Calipers, Removes Dust, Grease & Oil, Leaves No Residue – 19 oz (Case of 12)
View on AmazonWhy it ranks #10: The 12-pack of 14-ounce cans is a multipack rather than a large-volume pail or the larger aerosol cases in this selection.
Johnsen's 2417 combines a 14-ounce aerosol can with an OTC-compliant label, offering a spray option for routine brake and parts cleaning. Its stated compatibility with ABS, disc, and drum brakes makes it relevant to shops servicing several common brake types.
The 12-pack supplies individual cans for workstations or recurring jobs, avoiding the need to share a single large container. Johnsen's says the cleaner removes oil, grease, brake fluid, and contaminants quickly, then leaves no residue, supporting a straightforward clean-and-inspect workflow. Its listed use on ABS, disc, and drum brakes gives buyers clear application guidance. The supplied information identifies the product as OTC-compliant, a relevant formulation detail for selection, without specifying a broader bulk-pail format.
- Twelve 14-ounce aerosol cans
- OTC-compliant brake and parts cleaner
- Removes oil, grease, brake fluid, and contaminants quickly
- Listed for ABS, disc, and drum brakes; leaves no residue
- The 12-pack is an aerosol format rather than a bulk liquid container.
Skip it if you want a five-gallon liquid cleaner for shared dispensing; Johnsen's 2415C is listed in a five-gallon size.
Choose this multipack for users who prefer individual aerosol cans and need cleaner listed for ABS, disc, and drum brakes. Its quick, residue-free cleaning supports routine service, while the format is less suited to pail-based dispensing.
Full product details
| Brand | DENCO DISTRIBUTING, INC. |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 13.97 pounds |
| Manufacturer | Johnsen's |
| Part Number | 2417 |
| Package Dimensions | 11 x 10 x 8.5 inches |
| Additional Information | Important Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov |
Listed on Amazon as: Johnsen's 2417 Brake & Parts Cleaner, OTC-Compliant, 14oz, 12-Pack
View on AmazonAvoiding formula and regional compatibility surprises
Check the product label and local rules before ordering: the formula name alone does not establish that a cleaner is permitted or suitable for every workplace. The SQ listing explicitly says its standard formula is not for sale in several states and regions, and that some buyers may receive a 50-state-compliant version instead. CRC offers separate one-gallon listings: one is described as non-flammable, while another is explicitly non-chlorinated and extremely flammable.
Do not treat those products as interchangeable based on brand or container size. Chlorinated and non-chlorinated are distinct formula descriptions, and the listed GUNK cleaner is chlorinated despite its non-flammable claim.
Also review the application directions and safety documentation for nearby materials and the intended task. A five-gallon pail is a quantity choice, not a guarantee of compatibility with every brake component, work setting, or local restriction.
Choosing between a pail and a spray-can case
A pail and an aerosol case solve different dispensing problems, so total volume alone can mislead. The five-gallon products—CRC Brakleen, Johnsen’s, and Zep—are liquid cleaners, while the aerosol choices arrive in individual cans: Denco offers 48 cans of 13 ounces, SQ offers 36 cans of 14.5 ounces, and Quinton Hazell offers 12 cans of 20.3 ounces. A large pail may suit a workplace that already has a process for handling liquid cleaner; cans provide an individual spray format, and Quinton Hazell lists a precision spray nozzle.
The product data does not specify compatible dispensing equipment for the pails, so confirm that separately rather than assuming a particular applicator will work. Likewise, case count does not tell you how much cleaner is dispensed per job.
Match the format to your handling setup and routine before comparing listed volume.
How to Choose Bulk Brake Cleaner
Container size and format
Start with the container format your shop can handle and the quantity you routinely use. The listings range from one-gallon liquids to five-gallon pails and aerosol cases, including 12, 36, and 48 cans. Denco’s case contains 48 13-ounce cans; SQ lists 36 14.5-ounce cans; Quinton Hazell supplies 12 20.3-ounce cans.
The five-gallon liquid choices include CRC Brakleen, Johnsen’s, and Zep. A pail is a fit for sustained use when your workplace is set up to handle liquid cleaner, while a spray case suits buyers who want individual cans.
If usage is occasional or you need a smaller container, the one-gallon CRC options avoid committing to a five-gallon pail.
Formula and flammability
Compare the stated formula and flammability claims rather than assuming all brake cleaners behave alike. CRC’s one-gallon product is labeled non-flammable, while its separate non-chlorinated 50-state gallon is described as extremely flammable. GUNK lists a chlorinated, non-flammable formula; Denco and Quinton Hazell list non-chlorinated formulas.
These distinctions matter when selecting products for a particular workplace or procedure, but the listings do not establish that any cleaner is universally safe. Buyers who need a non-chlorinated formula can consider the five-gallon CRC or Johnsen’s listings; those specifically seeking the listed non-flammable claim can compare CRC’s one-gallon product and GUNK’s aerosol case.
Verify the current product label and safety documentation before use, especially where ignition sources or workplace requirements are relevant.
Regional and use requirements
Check regional availability and stated applications before choosing a large order. Johnsen’s five-gallon listing says its formula meets VOC requirements in all 50 states, and CRC’s five-gallon listing identifies a 50-state formula. SQ, by contrast, lists several state and regional exclusions for its standard non-chlorinated product and notes that some orders may receive a compliant alternative.
Zep’s five-gallon cleaner is specifically marked for workplace and industrial use only, so it is not the automatic choice for every buyer. For brake-system coverage, CRC lists applications including linings, pads, clutches, wheel cylinders, and springs; Johnsen’s one-gallon formula is listed for ABS, disc, and drum brakes.
Buyers with a regulated location should verify the exact formula delivered, while industrial users should prioritize the stated workplace designation and application list.
Which Bulk Brake Cleaner Fits Your Shop?
For most buyers who want a large-volume, non-chlorinated option, choose CRC Brakleen 5 Gallon: it pairs a five-gallon pail with a listed 50-state formula and residue-free cleaning. If you want a similarly large pail with an explicit all-50-state VOC statement, Johnsen’s 5 Gallon is a strong alternative. Choose Zep Brake Wash when the workplace or industrial-use designation fits your setting.
For bulk aerosol instead of liquid, Denco 1930 Cleaner supplies 48 cans, while SQ Non-Chlorinated Cleaner offers 36 cans but has regional restrictions to check. If you need a smaller liquid quantity, CRC Brakleen 1 Gallon is the listed non-flammable option.
Always confirm the current label, local availability, and safety documentation before ordering or use.
Related Buying Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Can brake cleaner damage paint, rubber, plastics, or other nearby materials?
Yes, it may damage nearby materials, and compatibility depends on the specific product and surface. Keep spray away from paint, rubber, plastics, and other components unless the product label confirms compatibility. Check the current label and safety documentation, and test an inconspicuous area when appropriate before applying cleaner near sensitive materials.
What ventilation and personal protective equipment should I use with bulk brake cleaner?
Use brake cleaner only with the ventilation and protective equipment specified on its current label and safety documentation. Avoid breathing spray or vapors, and keep the product away from ignition sources when the label requires it. Wear the listed protective gear, and do not assume that precautions for one formula apply to another.
How should I store and dispose of leftover brake cleaner and its containers?
Follow the product label and local rules for storage and disposal; requirements can vary by formula and location. Keep containers closed and stored as directed, away from conditions or materials the label warns against. Do not pour leftover cleaner down drains or discard containers with ordinary waste unless local guidance and the product instructions allow it.
Should I choose bulk liquid or aerosol brake cleaner?
Choose based on how you plan to apply the cleaner and handle the quantity. The list includes five-gallon liquid pails, a one-gallon option, and aerosol cases ranging from 12 to 48 cans. Check each product’s label for approved applications and handling directions before selecting a format for your workspace.
How can I check whether a non-chlorinated formula is suitable in my area?
Check the specific product’s current label and regional availability before ordering. The listed CRC five-gallon formula is described as non-chlorinated and 50-state, while the Johnsen’s five-gallon option is also identified as non-chlorinated. The SQ aerosol listing notes regional restrictions, so confirm its availability and requirements for your location.
Final Words
For a large-volume, non-chlorinated liquid with a listed 50-state formula and residue-free cleaning, CRC Brakleen 5 Gallon is the strongest overall fit. Johnsen’s 5 Gallon is a close alternative with an explicit all-50-state VOC statement, while Zep suits workplace or industrial use. For bulk aerosol, consider Denco’s 48-can case; for smaller liquid volume, consider CRC’s one-gallon option.
Confirm the current label, local availability, and safety documentation before buying or using any product.




