Lubricating 4-Way Connectors?

Either will work on like new connectors. Which you use is up to you. Now you know that dielectric grease is actually an insulator, but at least it is readily available. If you don't like the mess of the grease or if you have a plug that has corrosion, DeoxIT would be the obvious choice.

DougE wrote:
FYI. Dielectric grease is typically a thickened silicon lubricant. It is an insulator which is why it can be used on spark plug boots as a lubricant. When it is put in an electrical connection however, it will be sufficiently thin where the conductors touch that the insulation property is virtually negligible. There are contact cleaners like DeoxIT that remove corrosion, protect and lubricate electrical contacts without insulating properties.

So what are you recommending?

WD40 is more of a solvent. It is good for what is intended, displacing water and a penetrant. It can flush out lubricants from locks and the like.

dielectric grease wd 40 collects dirt and grime

FYI. Dielectric grease is typically a thickened silicon lubricant. It is an insulator which is why it can be used on spark plug boots as a lubricant. When it is put in an electrical connection however, it will be sufficiently thin where the conductors touch that the insulation property is virtually negligible. There are contact cleaners like DeoxIT that remove corrosion, protect and lubricate electrical contacts without insulating properties.

what is the best spray on electic lube/ I have used and have some dielectric grease, but that stuff is black and messy and I guess I'm a slob. I hate to even get near it.

Spray Silicon.

dielectric grease

x3

Available at any automotive store. If you don't see it ask one of the clerks, they'll have it. Just squeeze it into all the female holes and smear it onto the male pins.

WD40 may make the plug slide in and out easier but you also need a good electrical contact. That is why using dielectric grease is important. They also sell a contact cleaner in a spray can that contains a contact lubricant. Radio Shack carries it.

I use Camco Electrical Protectant and Lube. Works well on both AC and DC connections.