What substance to clean camshafts/bearings, valve cover?

[RR76]

I have the inlet cam cover with camshafts etc out for replacing the timing chain and tensioner on a dual cam 16v diesel engine. What should I clean the whole assembly with. I read white spirits the most often but others say brake cleaner or even wd40.

So I need to clean, camshafts, caps and bearings and the whole cover for which the inlet manifold attached onto. I'm reluctant to call this whole assembly the cylinder head, I think it's just called an engine cover of sorts.

[tapkaJohnD]

Engine degreaser, scrubbing brush, hot water flush then WD40 and airline to prevent flash rust.
John

[Boosted LS1]

i use gunk for degreasing with a stiff brush. Once rinsed I dry with rags and an airline. Then I spray with WD40. You have to be quick with ferrous items especially machined surfaces.

[RR76]

So no white spirits?