electric grease??

[Axel Grungy]

im not exactly sure what its called but its the grease thats on some electrical connections?? is this good or bad?? it seems the connection on my coolant temp sensor works better when its not gummed up with that crap. i keep cleaning it off but its gummed way down in the connector. so should i get rid of this crap?? thanks

[niznos]

It's called "dielectric gel" I think. It is supposed to keep the connector from corroding. It shouldn't be problematic unless your temp sensor has fine cracks/fisures that allow it to get into the sensor itself. On the other hand, it shouldn't be all that bad to go without either.

[Ubernoober]

Many different types, but the most common is Zinc Oxide in a petroleum base. Same stuff as you put on your nose to prevent sunburn.

You can probably dissolve it out with a light solvent. Rubbing alcohol would work well and not damage any plastics. Acetone would be more effective, but can be very aggresive to plastics and in particular and tape near the connector.

If you remove it, it is very likely that long term (a few months or years) the connector contacts will corrode and then you have a real problem. If I were you, I would clean it out, and buy a good replacement (radio-shack and best-buy/fry's are good sources)and lightly apply it. You will probably have a lot less this way, less mess and will have removed any dirt caught up in the old grease.It goes for about 2 bucks for a pinky-sized tube/packet.

BTW Dielectric means "non-conducting" or "insulator". It does not conduct electricity. Little info for the geek in you.