How to avoid corrosion of elec. connectors?

[Buddy Duck]

On my last boat (center console) had a bundle of wires ("wiring harness?) coming into the console that were connected by butt connectors w/ clear plastic insulation covers that were part of the connectors. After the boat was one year old, I had to replace about 9 of the connectors--they had corroded and turned green, and a couple of them were already causing intermittent failures. (all salt water boat use)<br /><br />I added 2 3" vents to promote circulation, to lessen the "aquarium" effect apprently common to ctr consoles. I also sprayed Boeshield everywhere in there, and put goops of "liquid tape" on the connections where the pvc covers left a small opening. I did seem to have problems due to poor connections where the fuses were in the fuse block, apparently because the Boeshield was so thick and waxy it might have hampered electrical transmission in the fuse block....otherwise have had little problem since. <br /><br />I have a new ctr console on order. same brand, grady white (I'm from NC, can't escape the homeboy thing). They DO NOT recommend that I spray anything on the connections, or where the spade lugs plug onto the back of the switches--they say leave them as is.....Can somebody pls tell me the skinny--I do not want the same problems on the new boat, but I cannot get agreement for the mfr, from makers of anti corrosion spays, from dealers of electronics. I think I want to use Boeshield or something similar and spray the connections like crazy <br /><br />My boat stays on a lift over the waterway, so it is in the weather. working inside a console in contorted position is not my favorite...I would like to get it right while the boat is new...thanks to any of you electrical pros w/ the experience to guide me! Leave it like the factory delivers it, or take preventive action? many thx in advance!<br /><br /><br />

 

[petryshyn]

Re: How to avoid corrosion of elec. connectors?

Any place prone to corrosion, I'd apply a silicone die-electric grease to both sides of the connection or connector.<br /><br />

 

[Buddy Duck]

Re: How to avoid corrosion of elec. connectors?

thanks schematic. I'll look for this at west marine..."apply liberally" will likely be my strategy

 

[petryshyn]

Re: How to avoid corrosion of elec. connectors?

Apply it heavily. The more the better. Its not a conductor. All it does is seal out air and moisture. You'll probably have to get it at a auto supply or electronics supply.<br /><br />Good luck

 

[Buddy Duck]

Re: How to avoid corrosion of elec. connectors?

thx, will do!

 

[Pursuit2150]

Re: How to avoid corrosion of elec. connectors?

The di-electric is very good. Another way of putting it into tight places is to mix it with a little acetone and brush it into place. The acetone will evaporate fast, and leave the grease in place.<br /> You can also use a product called Liquid electrical tape. It is also a great sealer and dries fast.

 

[crab bait]

Re: How to avoid corrosion of elec. connectors?

another good product to use is wire oxidation compound sold in any hardware store for cheap .. goes under trade names as penatrox , nolux .etc. it's good stuff!! alittle goes along way .. used it for years an nary afault. use it eveywhere even on trailer bulbs .. a little dab 'll do ya..

 

[SeaDawg]

Re: How to avoid corrosion of elec. connectors?

Ditto to all of the above - protect the connections no matter what GW says.<br /><br />Once the wires turn green, you have probably ruined the entire harness, because the corrosion will wick up under the insulation.<br /><br />I've cut open harnesses that have 4 or 5 ft. of corrosion in them, that only initially looked like the terminals were bad.