I agree with Roger and Charlie. Degrease with whatever works best, then do a final wash with Tide detergent (the powder if you can still find it) then rinse well. As far as bolting - now is the time to switch to a better fastener - it will cost a few bucks, but the black oxide ARP bolts wont need painting and are probably at a minimum of 50% stronger. The ARP polished versions - waaaay too expensive for my taste(wallet), but pretty 8-}