Abstract: A tumbling-type parts washer includes an apparatus for automatically securing a basket in a rotor assembly of the parts washer and for securing a lid onto the basket during parts cleaning. The apparatus includes a cam plate mounted to a wall of the housing of the parts washer and one or more torsion bar assemblies mounted for rotation with the rotor assembly. Each torsion bar assembly is operable between an open position that permits removal of the basket from the rotor assembly and a closed position that prevents removal of the basket from the rotor assembly. The cam plate defines a substantially circular cam surface with an open portion. The torsion bar assembly includes a torsion bar pivotally mounted on the rotor assembly, one or more basket retainers mounted on the torsion bar, and a cam follower mounted on a crank arm portion of the torsion bar.

Abstract: A recirculating parts washer provides both automatic jet washing and manual, sink-type brush washing for automotive parts and the like. The parts washer, which uses a water-based detergent cleaning solution, comprises a tank for storing a cleaning solution, a housing for providing an enclosed wash area, a jet wash means providing automatic jet washing, a brush wash means allowing manually cleaning, and a pump means for selectively delivering a flow of cleaning solution to the jet wash means and/or the brush wash means. A means for decontaminating the cleaning solution and the tank is also provided.