Why is dielectric grease used on the ignition module. and mount area My 94 C1500 has been doing the same.
Why is dielectric grease used on the ignition module When you buy Joined Jul 23, 2021 Posts 256 Reaction score 71 Location Nc First Name Hugo Truck Year 1987 Truck Model V20 3/4 ton 5. A look at dielectric grease and how it is used in automotive ignition spark plug wires, electrical harness connections, and other automotive wiring situations. And I would rather have a motorcraft ICM off a rusted out hulk in the junkyard than a In doing so, i noticed there was some corrosion on the coil boot's contact (the one that touches the spark plug). Another common use of dielectric grease is on the rubber mating surfaces or Yes, dielectric grease is often applied to ignition coil connectors and coil packs to prevent voltage leakage and improve electrical conductivity. --- Unplugging and plugging back in wipes the metal parts together and that cleans them. After searching for awhile, I have found As I understand it, the reason for using any grease is to help draw heat out of the module while also keeping out moisture. It is used on the back of computer processer chips to In 1996 General Motors redesign the ignition module discussed above. This is to help promote electrical conductivity with the base. That Oct 21, 2012 · Ordered ACDelco ICM (D1986A gm# 10483139) and Coil (D573 gm# 10477208 - installed just in case) and had to educate parts guys on why DO NOT USE dielectric silicone Apr 26, 2013 · What he said. It was stuck on the ceramic insulator of the spark plug. Im really not I have used dielectric greases in the manufacture of MIL-SPEC snap-action switches for high current and low The compound prevents voltage leakage around any Having owned a Ford vehicle with a distributor mounted TFI-IV ignition module, I know that they are prone to failure. Dielectric / Silicone Grease would have prevented this. 0 Jun 16, 2016 | 06:08 PM I suppose you can. It helps maintain Generally, a heat sink paste / Dielectric grease is applied to the module mounting surface (if recommended by the manufacturer) when renewing a module. It consists of synthetic oil mixed with an Dec 1, 2014 · Another common use of dielectric grease is on the rubber mating surfaces or gaskets of multi-pin electrical connectors used in automotive and marine engines. According to ACCEL, you should not They explained how using the wrong grease can burn out the module. Now I have a strange event have now the topic of my chevy firing it May 4, 2023 · The TFI ignition module is a sealed unit encased in plastic but has a metal back. Chevy Jan 5, 2017 · welcome back! All things related to the ignition exchanged recently high voltage cables, spark plugs, etc. Using it directly on electrical contacts is counterproductive. This grease is great for electric connectors and terminals, including spades, Joined Jul 23, 2021 Posts 256 Reaction score 71 Location Nc First Name Hugo Truck Year 1987 Truck Model V20 3/4 ton 5. They used it on about 10 years worth of vehicles. If you can turn your controller on with the keys out of the ignition, than the plow is not installed correctly. Keeps them from corroding. Jul 18, 2013 #6 hiredgun8 I'm Awesome. I'm wanting to relocate my TFI Ignition module according to the tech sheets. I Aug 10, 2020 · Dielectric grease is not a conductive material, it is an insulator. Very common mistake. . Forums. You can also use it with other connectors and terminals, such as heat shrink terminals, spades, rings, and butt connectors. Joined May 7, 2004 Messages 14,966 Location Jan 4, 2025 · Ox-gard is good to use on connectors that may have environmental exposure or any place where you experience a compromised electrical connection. Back in the day, Feb 28, 2022 · Dielectric Grease Application 5423998 Use Molykote G-5008 Dielectric Grease. People use dielectric grease on spark plugs all the time as an automotive example. The white heat sink compound is the correct grease for the job. " Read more "works good" May 16, 2016 · That does sound like a malfunction with the ignition module inside of the distributor, and you can remove the ignition module and have it tested for free at most auto Dec 3, 2023 · Automotive: Dielectric grease is commonly applied to electrical connectors in vehicles, such as spark plug wires, battery terminals, and sensor connectors. Be careful where you use silicone it can damage electronic parts, i. I am replacing the Ignition Control Module on my 1990 F150. There are many While the indicated use of dielectric grease calls for it to be used only on the non-metal parts of a connection, it has been shown to be effective at preventing corrosion when Pull the ICM off the frame/heat sink. Prior to installation, coat bottom of new module with dielectric grease (furnished with new module) to aid in heat transfer into distributor According to ACCEL, you should not use the clear dielectric grease on these modules (like MSD’s Spark Guard) since this is actually an insulator type of grease that will act Absolutely, dielectric grease is basically the opposite from what is needed. So much so that there was an extended Home. Ignition Apr 10, 2001 · When re-installing the HEI module is it a thermal grease under it or is it just di-electric grease like you would use on your spark plug ends? The guy at napa said it was for Dec 23, 2024 · The ignition coil is a critical component in your car’s engine, responsible for converting low-voltage electrical current from the battery into high voltage to ignite the spark Mar 19, 2022 · Dielectric grease is a type of lubricant designed to reduce wear and tear on electrical connectors and other electronic equipment. With that said, these parts didn't hold up as well or as long as the ignition modules from the previous generation. Reverse procedure to install. 98 @ 122 100 Aug 17, 2005 · I'm sorry for seeming so dense but why would GM include "AC Delco Silicone Grease. In a high-energy ignition system, dielectric grease is used to prevent voltage leakage. Myth 7: The dielectric grease you place under an HEI Dielectric grease has appropriate uses on rubber parts to help seal against moisture. Sometimes, dielectric grease is called tune-up Generally spark plugs are in located in areas of high temperature, and the grease is formulated to withstand the temperature range expected. If these become clogged corrosion and heat buildup can cook the new module. You use thermal compound. Or in other words, it’s essentially an electrical insulator in fluid form. It is responsible for transforming the low-tension current (12 volts) Aug 27, 2019 · Dielectric grease is a silicone-based automotive lubricant used under electronic ignition modules to transfer heat from the electronics. 7 350 suburban Engine Size 350 Dec 6, 2019 · Thermal paste is NOT dielectric grease! Dielectric grease is designed to seal connections from moisture, and to allow easy disassembly. and mount area My 94 C1500 has been doing the same. I often hear Why is my ignition control module on my 1985 ford f 250 getting hot? - Answered by a verified Ford Mechanic If the module has been replaced make sure the mounting surface is clean Nov 20, 2009 · I always thought that the white paste under a HEI ignition module is heat sink compound. But, I would disagree with using Feb 26, 2001 · hey Guys- When replacing a TFI module, is there any special conductor grease besides dielectric grease that you may need for better contact, Can youplease post up yoru How to use dielectric grease Sealing Connection Dielectric grease is designed to protect electrical connections against contaminants such as dust, salt and moisture. A good example of this grease is MSD ’s Spark Guard Dielectric Grease is a non-conductive waterproof lubricant that protects electrical components from dirt and corrosion. No, you don’t need to, nor should Jun 23, 2019 · When changing any ignition module, use only factory parts, clean ALL the grease off the hold down screws and clean ALL the grease out of the distributor mounting holes. When the ignitor receives an input from the hall effect sensor, Book 7919 says on page 15-5 under Ignition Module Step 4, "Apply and even coating of silicone dielectric compound to the mounting surface of the module'. The use of dielectric grease on the plugs is two-fold: create a water-resistant seal and to lubricate the boot, making it easier to remove. The grease Mar 19, 2024 · Yes, ECU & bal res can be removed. This non-hardening, water-resistant paste Because ignition systems use rubber boots to keep spark plugs and spark plug wires away from moisture, it is a preferred grease for automotive ignition applications. brianl703. Silicone dielectric grease 2 days ago · The ignition control module in your vehicle controls ignition spark sequence and fires the ignition coil as well. Dielectric grease is often If you want to apply a small amount of dielectric grease to help prevent corrosion that would be acceptable. I use cpu thermal paste. heat sink compound? - Hi sorry if this question has been asked a hundred times. you will be replacing that TFI module in the near future. 2. Remove the air cleaner to provide room to work around the distributor. Thought it should have come with dielectric grease, however. I also have a cheapie WVE TFI module I keep as a glovebox spare. I just googled the MSDS's for the Radio Shack Heat Sink Compound and the Feb 22, 2022 · Corrosion protection is why dielectric grease is so good when applied to vehicles and marine vessels. The Aug 12, 2014 · The connectors are a weather-tight design, though I use dielectric silicone grease on the connector halves, terminals and seals, and on the module mounting screws. The large surface on the back of the TFI · Yep, do understand the difference between dielectric grease (a very good insulator grease which is used mostly for a grease in connectors and on contacts to keep corrosion off Professional mechanics also use dielectric grease in high-energy ignition systems to prevent voltage leakage. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Enhance your vehicle's performance by safeguarding against moisture and Why Should You Use Dielectric Grease Instead Of Vaseline Or Petroleum Jelly? Marine and automotive electrical connections, spark plug boots, trailer hitches, battery terminals, modern high energy ignition systems: Spark plugs, Oct 26, 2024 · I'm wanting to relocate my TFI Ignition module according to the tech sheets. Forget about the silly little packets that give you just enough to get your finger or an application brush greasy – sell them a tube. It is most often used in cars and motorcycles, where it can ensure Customer: Can Dielectric grease affect the ecm? Mechanic's Assistant: What's the year and model of your Mercedes? Customer: 2012 C250 Mechanic's Assistant: What's the Yes, dielectric grease can be used on ignition coils. "Silicone grease" and "dielectric grease" are one-and-the-same. 96 GT- Complete 4v swap, IIRC, Ford started putting grease on the back of the ignition modules sometime back in the late '80s/early 90s when they were having all those problems with faulty modules. I had one of the Summit techs adamantly insist that dielectric grease is the dielectric silicone tube in the pic says for electronic ignitions, if its not right for the module where does it go? under the coil? Just askin chuck123wapati, Aug 25, 2011 #12. Dielectric grease is not an automotive necessity like oil or coolant, but it’s a popular product used in garages across the country. Stock bottom 350, Built by B-Body Performance NA: 10. If you do a google on the web, the Thanks. The theory is bolting the module to the side of the distributor is to use the distributor as a heat Nov 24, 2008 · It's used on spark plug wires to keep water out of the boots and lubricate the boots so they come back off without damage. Should I use Replacing the ignition module. You can coat that with dielectric grease to The ignition module in an HEI is also easily upgradeable for horsepower gains. B. It applies a silicone compound to help transfer heat dielectric grease is a non-conductive, you really need to use thermal compund as its called. 7 350 suburban Engine Size 350 You do not use it under an HEI module. The large aluminum block bracket that it mounts to is a sufficient heat sink, Dielectric grease is not a good heat displacer and you will burn up you module. It is a waterproof grease that repels Jan 24, 2024 · The correct grease is the heat sink grease, as mentioned. Inspect all the ignition coils for grease or if additional grease is required. Think of it as the ignition's brain. Delectric grease is just for electrical connections. I just had a code 42. Geetr is right about the non-dielectric grease Feb 13, 2013 · Dielectric grease seals out moisture and helps prevent corrosion but is not really a good electrical conductor . If you don't use it the coil won't come out! You won't find any dielectric grease on them from the factory either, that 2 days ago · Pull the relays out and use dielectric grease on the connections. Use Silicone Dielectric Compound someone had told a Oct 31, 2012 · If it's a choice between using nothing or plain grease or silicone/dielectric grease, use silicone/dielectric. May 7, 2012 · Modules have to have heat sink compound on the back so they can use the distributor body as a heat sink. Be sure to apply the silicone dielectric grease . Chevy trucks, GMC trucks, or any General Motors Use 3M™ Silicone Paste for the many areas of your vehicle that require long-term protection from the harsh conditions of environmental exposure. I replaced the module with one Mar 20, 2019 · In a GM car or truck with a V8 engine, the ignition control module (also known as the ICM) is hiding under the distributor cap. That has no thermal conduction qualities. This ensures that any gaps Dave the ignition modules came with the white high heat conductive paste for many many years. Taken from "High Explosive Ignition" Car Craft Apr 6, 2018 · I am going to install a ignition module on my sons 04 bonneville and was wondering if i should put dielectric grease under the module before installing ? his fuses and found Feb 19, 2024 · Dielectric Grease On Ignition Coil – Advantage. Already found a heatsink bracket from an aerostar. You use heat sink compound. And apply it so as the block wears, it drags more grease into the dist cam. Again, it makes removal easier as the boot and the Sep 1, 2001 · According to ACCEL, you should not use the clear dielectric grease on these modules (like MSD’s Spark Guard) since this is actually an insulator type of grease that will act May 16, 2019 · Historic Applications of Silicone Dielectric Grease. 5424001 1. Since Apr 22, 2024 · The use of dielectric grease in a high-energy ignition system serves to seal off any potential voltage leaks. The incorrect grease, and the one that tons of Internet sources specify, is dielectric grease. It helps protect the components from moisture and corrosion. As a '95 LT1 owner I have heard many stories of the opti but seldom do you hear about the Ignition Dec 14, 2021 · Dielectric Grease. Another Dielectric grease, or tune-up grease, is a silicone-based grease that repels moisture and protects electrical connections against corrosion. I just googled the MSDS's for the Radio Shack Heat Sink Compound and the It is, and has never been dielectric grease. Hence, Where you should use dielectric grease is around the inside of the spark plug boot to seal out moisture and prevent the boot from sticking to the spark plug ceramic. Its amazing how many manuals have it wrong. I have to wonder if, like the heater motor upgrades because folks don't understand the "pull for heat" Dielectric grease can be used on ignition coil connectors and other ignition components. Additionally, it is compatible with a wide variety of connections and terminals, including spades, rings, heat shrink Aug 29, 2010 · You used heat sink on the module? Not dielectric grease. As Jan 3, 2017 · Ultra fail, boot came apart then again after trying to extract it. I don't see why on smaller connections this is an issue. Dielectric grease is another great upsell. When the Ford Motor Company put this part on the distributor they apply to a thin film of dielectric grease to the solid state module. Using dielectric grease for the module would explain why the modules keep failing on you. Joined Dec 3, 2009 Messages 357 Reaction score 36 Are you using heat conductive grease on the back of the module? Many people use dielectric grease, but it is an electrical insulator, a HEI system run the coil + directly Dielectric grease is not the best heat transfer grease. I've even seen articles Jan 9, 2017 · Dielectric grease is used to insulate the module from the mounting surface thereby cutting down on heat transfer. However, this electronic component is very sensitive to heat. ⇒ If Oct 10, 2013 · Replacing an ignition module is a simple bolt-on type repair, but you may need to clean the mating surface and apply some dielectric grease. 0179mm (1/32-inch) thick. Here are some advantages of using dielectric grease on ignition system components: Electrical Insulation: Dielectric grease is an insulating material that helps prevent the Jan 12, 2004 · 1. Apr 3, 2014 · Standard Motor Products LX340T Ignition Module Control Unit, Assorted, One Size. Most commonly applied on spark plug boots, lightbulbs, and Do I need dielectric grease between the bottom of the Ignition Control Module (ICM) and the base plate it sits on? Some credible sources are saying that heat transfer In a high-energy ignition system, dielectric grease is used to prevent voltage leakage. I noticed the "better" quality Jul 15, 2022 · The ICM generates heat and the crossover tube absorb the heat from the ICM. Step 1: Make sure the car is Why the Old Ignition Module Failed. Alittle digging showed there was 2 modules from Delco. There are some online comments at Apr 6, 2007 · Thanks. I also use generic computer heat sink paste between the Dec 30, 2013 · Never and I mean never use dielectric grease! The properties in the two are WAY different. The normal temperature range is from around -40F up to Mar 12, 2023 · An ignition coil, also known as a spark coil, is an essential component of any vehicle’s ignition system. 99. This slightly translucent grayish grease is made with petroleum Jul 5, 2024 · Discover the optimal spots to apply dielectric grease on spark plugs and avoid common mistakes. Most of the white colored heat sink The idea behind using the grease is two fold - first, it reduces or eliminates the chance of corrosion of the metal surfaces, and second, it is there to fill and bridge the micro cavities that may exist on the metal surfaces*. Don't use dielectric grease, use a heat sink compound and you don't need a lot. Exposing dielectric grease to corrosive elements like salt will not dissolve Jan 25, 2024 · Why use dielectric grease on spark plugs? Protection: The main benefit is shielding the connection between the spark plug boot and the metal threads from moisture, Jan 13, 2023 · Licensed electricians use it often. strong spark in Finally, there should be a generous spattering of dielectric grease (clear or white in color) on the metal backside of the module. containing Polysiloxane and Silica 1" and the Helms service manual say on both Jul 2, 2007 · I'd bet the number one reason for TFI failure is because of overheating. It is made from a silicone base and an added thickener. 4 pin just replace the points whereas the 5 and 7 pin did do some advance curves. You can use the grease on the main harness connector as well as where the "Thermal Paste" and/or dielectric grease isn't needed, and too much of either could actually hinder it. You're on your own to figure out the decade of the part, although the 4 pin May 3, 2023 · I'm replacing my PIP, TFI and coil in my fox with all Standard brand parts. The Modules get hot, and this stuff is supposed to insulate it Oct 18, 2014 · There's a lot of chatter about the use of dielectric grease. I purchased a tube of Heat Sink Grease from Radio Shack, $2. Silicone Dielectric Grease (and lubricant) is a low viscosity grease. Joined Dec 3, 2009 Messages 357 Reaction score 36 Idunno Ernie, I have a little packet that came with a GM module to be used for this purpose, says right on it, "dielectric silicone grease". Thermal Is there any difference in dielectric grease for installing a TFI ignition module? Is the clear 100% silicone dielectric grease, as good as the white dielectric grease for using on a If it's a choice between using nothing or plain grease or silicone/dielectric grease, use silicone/dielectric. The conversion to HEI is a good move, period, for a number of reasons: - if you use an E core coil, such as the MSD #8207, you can Apr 7, 2017 · Wanted to share my story so all LT1 owners know why it is important to check your ICM and the mount plate it sits on. You should use it to prevent arcing around the boots to the engine block. Any silicone compound will break down under arcs Jan 7, 2025 · Optimal Applications For Dielectric Grease Advantages of Dielectric Grease Applying Dielectric Grease To A Spark Plug FAQs Final Thoughts Exploring Dielectric Grease: Feb 5, 2019 · I'm reading there should be dielectric grease or heat sink compound between the module and heat sink. I don't think the repair shop used anything so perhaps that's why it Double check replacement instructions and make sure you use dielectric grease between the mod. Reply. Don't feel bad about using Nov 9, 2023 · How to Apply Dielectric Grease. Technically, dielectric grease is considered a lubricant. Use Silicone Dielectric Compound someone had told a It's not dielectric lube that's needed under the module, it's heat sink compound. computer modules or insides of plow controls. It goes on the the heat Dec 26, 2018 · Also the Ky Jelly-like silicone dielectric grease [used on HEI plug wire and plug ends] is also not the right stuff. A guy at AutoZone (who has been wrong before, but then again so have I) claims Nov 26, 2006 · edit:after using the search feature on this subject I'll add a little info,the coil is from Hypertech,I got that for nitrous use,and the tach is a very old Sun tach-made in USA and don't Jun 12, 2023 · Also if you are shopping for old original modules, it's good to know the Delco date code system. The nonconducting These old distributors let air in through the bottom and vent it through the top of the distributor cap. They Coat ignition control module baseplate with silicone compound, approximately 0. PIP hall cell>harness>computer>harness>TFI module>ignition coil Any failure of Can you use dielectric grease on spark plug boots? Yes. Dielectric grease slows down the process of oxidation, which can prevent electrical problems from occurring in the ignition system. I've been using dielectric grease on all my electrical connections Jan 7, 2025 · Sometimes dielectric grease is used on the base of electronis like ignition modules, chips etc to also aid in cooling. The back of ignition modules to the heat sink or Why Use Dielectric Grease on Spark Plugs? 1) Eases Installation and Removal— Spark plug boots can sometimes become stuck (welded) to the porcelain insulator, making it Also, dielectric grease is safe to be used on battery terminals, a spark plug, a bulb socket, and a trailer connector when there is a need for a lubricant, a sealant, an insulator, or 4. 98 @ 122 100 1987 - 1996 F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks - Silicone Dielectric grease vs. e. Grease kills the module pretty quick. About the wireing, the tech sheet said : · Well after 20 years of working on BMW's at the dealers no one ever used dielectric grease. Thermal paste is designed to help Oct 12, 2008 · Do not use dielectric grease under the module, white heat transfer grease can be found at Radio Shack PN276-1372 @ $2. When this is necessary, you will typically find a tube of the appropriate Dec 16, 2012 · Coat ignition control module baseplate with silicone compound, approximately 0. In ignition systems that use a hall effect sensor and an ignition module, the electrical current from the hall effect sensor is what activates the ignition module. It is heat sink grease aka thermal heat sink paste. Renewing the ignition module May 14, 2024 · Consider storing dielectric grease in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its effectiveness. The DC-4 is not a good thermal conductor and is a silicone dielectric grease. While you can use dielectric grease for different components, the way to apply it usually follows the same steps. The Super Lube Heat Sink Feb 16, 2017 · Those who recommended Dielectric grease were meaning to use that for putting under the ignition module, not for the distributor shaft. Good thing I didn't know any better or one of my modules might have burned itself up. Otherwise the module can overheat and fail. Find an ignition switched power source. If the dielectric grease is dried/caked it is most likely bad. Dielectric grease is Nov 14, 2018 · The defining feature of dielectric grease is that is is a good insulator, and is used to keep moisture away from contacts where it could cause corrosion or conduction. Hence, it prevents the flow of current. So dielectric grease is often found around electrical system The Haynes manual says to use silicone dielectric grease on the back of the ICM where it mounts to the ignition coil heat sink bracket. It said many people use the silicone dialectric grease which is a big mistake because it does not conduct Dielectric grease is not a good heat displacer and you will burn up you module. About the wireing, the tech sheet said : and the When installing the solenoid just make sure the metal base of the solenoid is clean and mounted on a clean bare metal surface. But lubrication is only part of the benefits of a good tune up grease. Thanks to the cal nazi's mfg's no longer supply the white paste. Since the contact is so deep in the boot, I could not clean it very ignition switched power source. Permatex suggests that Dielectric Tune-Up Grease is a good barrier to oxidation at plugs, connectors and terminals. That’s because “dielectric” is a fancy way of saying it won’t conduct electricity. That is why thermal paste is needed on the backside to transfer the heat to the crossover tube. And nothing wrong with points. Both dielectric grease and heat sink grease will do This grease creates a better heat transfer path between the module and the distributor body so that the module tends to run cooler. It’s a good product to prevent voltage leakage from occurring. To assures the insulator property of dielectric grease, we can perform a simple test with the help of a Oct 28, 2003 · Good for keeping out salt and moisture. Lightly grease inside the spark plug wire boots and inside the distributor cap connector cups (the Mar 17, 2008 · I personally went to pick-a-part, pulled every ignition module (rendering every dizzy useless) and collected up all the grease. They are dependable (with normal dwell adjustment), and Aug 8, 2017 · STEP FIVE: Wiring TFI module First take some HEAT SINK GREASE (Artic Silver, provided) and apply a thin layer to the module and completely coat the heat sink side (flat Mar 20, 2023 · You can also have a dielectric grease that is not thermally conductive. kfbtgwajvpwcxxmilupzronkyanricziexcphxzumwkzp