How and where do you use dielectric grease? And why? On spark plugs only or on other connectors too? My O2 sensor connectors got wet again and I'm getting codes. Happened once before and the codes cleared up after a day or two once the connectors dried out. I'm wondering if dielectric grease would keep the water from fouling the connections.

 

I use it on all the plug in electrical sockets. all of them. water block is the reason. bonus is that it makes it easy to unplug connectors if need be.

 

Hey Dusty-

Do you put it on the actual contact points, or on the outside of the plugs after they are connected?

 

I fill up the female and insert the male. Squeezing all the excess out with the thrust of hydraulic pressure. I smear that on the outside

 

Thanks

 

I was just wondering about this the other day when the cashier at the auto store was offering to sell me "bulb grease" with my purchase of a bulb. I understand silicone (di-electric) grease, which is non-conductive, is used in spark plug boots, bulb sockets, and electrical connectors to keep water out and prevent corrosion. I almost never use it except to lubricate spark plug boots and polyurethane bushings. I've never had a problem with water or corrosion in a bulb or connector socket, in 25 years of driving and maintaining vehicles. But I live and drive in mostly arid climates in the west. My concern about using the grease is that dust will stick to it and it will accumulate grime. Therefore I've only used it to lubricate one connector on a transmission that was prone to jamming. I don't have much experience in wet or humid environments. I've been there, but not really operated a vehicle for any significant time. Have you found the grease really beneficial?

 

I have dielectric grease on every connector under the bonnet. Hell (not a proper x-mas term), I even used it on my exterior Christmas light connections.

 

Thats mechanic **** there....

 

i have had electrical versus water issues in the past. i first began using that spray on silicone stuff it worked okay, but brittles and dissipates and needs to be kept up. just started using dielectric, about 10 years ago. I find it is far superior in its ability to fight the infiltration of corrosive elements. it is also a must for trailer light plugs and adapters, if you want them to last and be reliable. it is what the expensive waterproof electrical wire nuts have in them, and that works in sprinkler system, below grade, junctions that are always wet.

 

I've been using electrical contact spray for years but it needs re-using regularly. The dialectric grease seems like the perfect answer - we learn new tricks everyday from others - thanks.