yes, you can use dielectric grease, but I would recommend being very careful if you insist on washing the engine, and DON't do it at the car wash with high pressure spray. You're gonna corrode the connections someday, even with grease.

Peter

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1972 220D ?? miles
1988 300E 200,012
1987 300D Turbo killed 9/25/07, 275,000 miles
1985 Volvo 740 GLE Turobodiesel 218,000
1972 280 SE 4.5 165, 000 - It runs!