Im not sure on the brake cleaner vs the carb cleaner. You would have to check the can and see what it says.
If you are looking to check the pinch on the engine, just put the glow plug in and try turning the flywheel by hand. It its hard to turn at the top of the stroke then the engine still has good compression. If the inside doesnt show any obvious signs of rust then put some after run oil in (aka marvel mystery oil) and lube it up good. Close it up and try starting it. If the engine is shot its not going to get any worse. If it has good compression it should fire up for you.