[Boatanchors] Panel and Chassis Cleaning?

[Curt]

No doubt there has been lot of discussion about cleaning chassis and panels. 
I've read advocates for using oven cleaner (!?), washing the rig in a 
dishwasher (!?), using "naval jelly" to clean aluminum, or hosing down the 
rig out in the backyard.

I just can't bring myself to use any of these methods on old rigs, own 
several Drakes that have only dusted because of my worry about doing more 
damage than good.  I've also avoided spraying de-oxit or wd-40 on anything 
for the same reason.  Recently, have acquired some old equipment where 
dusting just isn't sufficient, so here is what contemplate and would 
appreciate advice:

First, will use "air in a can" like used for my computer equipment to blow 
as much dust and dirt as possible off chassis and panel after removing from 
case.  Use q-tip dipped in dishwashing liquid detergent solution in water, 
followed by q-tip in water, followed by hair dryer to clean small areas of 
the chassis.  Windex on q-tip for stubborn areas.

Advice?  Problems with this approach?

73, Curt KB5JO