While lying under my console to remove a steering cable, I notice that most of the connections at my various control switches have corrosion on them. What is the best way to clean these off and what can I put on these connections to retard corrosion?
Thanks
To clean the corrosion, you’ll have to take them apart. Electrical contact cleaner is a good start. You may also need some mechanical cleaning. Emery paper, a brass or stainless steel brush, a new pencil eraser, etc. Then spray on the contact cleaner again.
To protect them, there are several products available. I use Boeshield T-9 but there are others. You want something that evaporates and leaves a waxy, not oily coating which will attract and retain dirt. WD-40 is a good example of what not to use.
Ron
2000 Camano Troll
North Charleston, SC
What he said ^
woody wax and dielectric grease are also good protectors.
There’s likely water running from your helm down behind your panel if it’s bad corrosion though. You should try and put some weather stripping on the top and sides of the panel and reinstall. I prefer that to sealant/adhesive like 4200 or life caulk, but you may have to use sealant if you don’t have the width to apply weather strip foam. Either will stop the water from running onto the back of your switches. DO NOT use 5200. You don’t want near-permanent adhesion on a panel that you will need to take off from time to time.
My 2ct
Luke 8:22-25
I’m almost always fresh water, but with a 2002 boat corrosion is still a problem. After spending almost a month tracking down a stern light issue, I found that it was corrosion on one contact only on one of my switches.
I now use CRC Battery Terminal protector, and the spray and liquid version of Liquid Tape. I think it is made by Perminix, and can be found at most hardware, automotive stores.
That’s what I was looking for. Thanks guys!