1968 dieelectric grease

[Tequila]

Sorry, this question may have been asked before. I searched for it and couldn't find an answer, hence the post. Also, googled it but thought I would ask the experts here.

I am in the process of replacing the entire wiring harness on my 68 and I was wondering if I should spray some dieelectric grease on the connectors before plugging them?

thanks

 

[Ruppstang]

It would not hurt. I use a gun cleaning kit to clean the connectors, I think that is more important.
Marty

 

[somethingspecial]

I don't know about the plugs, but the light sockets are a must. The rust which forms inside the tail light sockets destroys/rusts the socket contact springs causing them to collapse and become useless. The DE grease prevents this. I'm with Marty, it couldn't hurt. Mike

 

[Tequila]

Thanks guys. great reminder about the light sockets.

 

[robert campbell]

not to mention that it helps the plugs "slip" together easier. And pull apart!!!

 

[Edward Bodoh]

Glad I read this post. This morning I disassembled my tail lights in an effort to clean up my lamp posts. For some reason even after finishing the project, my passenger side lights still aren't quite as bright as the driver side. Mainly when the brakes are applied. Also noticed the springs in the posts were rusty, like Mike mentioned above. Wondering what to attack next to solve this, as the posts and bulbs are all cleaned up. It isn't that bad but knowing it's like that bugs me. I'm sure you guys have ideas As my forte isn't of the electrical kind...thanks in advance. ED.

 

[rvrtrash]

I use electrical contact cleaner to clean connections and sockets. It comes in a spray can, like carb or brake cleaner. If you really want to get carried away, you can polish the contacts with some steel wool.

Steve

 

[Ruppstang]

Some times those rusted sockets can be saved by soaking them in Evaporust then after drying lubricating them.
Marty

 

[robert campbell]

On the subject of tail light sockets, I always solder a wire directly to the socket casing on each socket for a ground. Group them to the wire that goes into the trunk area a grounded near the trunk latch.

A large percentage of auto electrical problems are poor grounds.

Rob

 

[Mosesatm]

Here's a thread about tail light restoration.
http://californiaspecial.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2827