Advice on cleaning electrical connections - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

JHZR2 · #1 07-18-2002, 02:32 PM

Hi,

I need to clean some corroded electrical connections on wires for various engine components. They are the type of connector where a flat end on one wire slides into a flat receiver on the ther wire, and they join tightly. I believe the corrosion is causing poor connectiosn which are giving me problems, so anyt advice on the best way to clean these would be appreciated. Thanks very much,

leathermang · #2 07-18-2002, 02:56 PM

Very small brushes,, almost like toothbrushes are available with brass bristles.... very handy and don't make scratches on things... Greg

JHZR2 · #3 07-18-2002, 02:59 PM

Are there any chemicals that are reccomended? I cant easily pull the two parts apart, and theyre not soldered together. It is actually the two wires for the aux fan that trigger the aux fan. I have a new fan, and it works when I jumper the wires, but sometimes even when jumpered it doesnt start, as the connections, despite the rubber boots, are corroded.
Thanks for the reply, and TIA for any others.

JMH

Palangi · #4 07-18-2002, 09:19 PM

There is a chemical called De-OxIt (Or something close to that. Commonly used in the Pacific for treating electrical connectors exposed to salt air. You can probably find it at electronics component distributors. (Where the TV repair guys buy their parts and tools).

jseries · #5 07-18-2002, 10:37 PM

If the plug-ins are corroded enough where you're having trouble getting them apart you prolly need new connections. With no power in the circuit try a penetrating oil(spray) like PB Blaster etc to get them ungunked enough to get them apart w/o breaking them. Spray them well with an electrical contact cleaner and see how they come out. If they're salvageable smear them with dielectic(sp?) grease before putting them back together. That'll keep future water out of the connections. All the above are available at any auto parts store.

The Warden · #6 07-19-2002, 03:32 AM

WD-40 can work wonders in removing corrosion...but a brush of sorts would definitely be best (using both in conjunction works well). I agree on the dielectric grease.