Dishwasher as parts washer?

I can say from first hand experience, that a dishwasher works great for a final clean. I can also say my wife was not amused.

Things to think about: Dishwasher detergent is pretty powerful stuff, and will degrease parts completely, so expect flash rust. You want the parts to be pretty clean do begin with. Easy-off and a couple quarters at the local car wash is a good first clean. You want to get 99% of the crud off first. Grit will hurt the grinder in the bottom of the dishwasher.