Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Dialectric grease on the starter contacts?

[vsimkus]

Hello



Would it hurt anything if I put silicone on the starter contacts? My theory is that it should reduce arcing.



On a related note, does anyone know how long I can expect to the large size contacts form Larry B to last? I've finally bought a set after getting fed up with changing starters every two years, which usually happens on the first cold snap. Rolling around the snow in single digit temps is no fun



Thanks

Vic

 

[GOlsen]

Not sure about the silicone. As far as the Larry B contacts, I've had mine in for about 4 years with no problems so far.

 

[hsmith]

Leave them dry, due to the arcing when they contact.

 

[mhelburg]

It helps to run a ground strap from the end of the starter motor back to the block or the bellhousing.

 

[Batphreak]

Dielectric grease at an actual contact point is not a good idea. Dielectric grease was developed as a way to keep water out of contacts and it does NOT conduct electricity. It's really good on the outside of contacts, works well in connectors due to their ability to wipe the grease off of the contacts as they go together, then the grease protects that contact from moisture. There are some conducting greases out there that can be useful in a direct contact area like a large relay.

 

[WilsonF]

OK now I am confused

Dielectric grease at an actual contact point is not a good idea. Dielectric grease was developed as a way to keep water out of contacts and it does NOT conduct electricity. It's really good on the outside of contacts, works well in connectors due to their ability to wipe the grease off of the contacts as they go together, then the grease protects that contact from moisture. There are some conducting greases out there that can be useful in a direct contact area like a large relay.

I was told, by a guy that knows electronics, that dielectric grease did conduct electricity. I keep reading "use dielectric grease" what is it and give me some brand names, when I go to buy it all I get is a thousand yard stare.



Floyd

 

[AHolt]

I relocated both battery,s to the rear, ran new

cables to starter and fuse box. I used dielectric

grease on all fittings. No problems.

 

[Batphreak]

Well, the definition of Dielectric says otherwise on the issue of conductivity;

Dielectric | Define Dielectric at Dictionary.com

The bottom of this page has some conductive greases:
McMaster-Carr

 

[WilsonF]

That's better

Well, the definition of Dielectric says otherwise on the issue of conductivity;



Dielectric | Define Dielectric at Dictionary.com



The bottom of this page has some conductive greases:

McMaster-Carr

That helped a lot, now all I need is some brand names so when I go back to the store I know I'm getting the right stuff.



Floyd

 

[Batphreak]

I've never actually looked for a Brand name conducting grease. Penetrox is about the only one i could find mentioned with any consistency:

Penetrox A Aluminum Copper Anti Seize Seez

Saw a couple references to possibly finding it at Home Depot. Personally I'd probably just order it online from McMaster or Grainger, or as a local Industrial Electrical supply company what they recommend.

 

[WilsonF]

Thanks for the link, but I'm looking for a non-conductive grease,"Assures high conductivity at all voltage levels". I've used no-ox and alox on the job but want something I can put in a multi-conductor plug to keep the water out.

Floyd