Dielectric grease is an extremely popular product among mechanics. It is said to be extremely useful, which is why most mechanics have it handy to apply on spark plugs, battery terminals, and lightbulbs. Its main purpose is lubrication and it works to ensure the smooth functioning of auto parts. This in turn extends the life of the vehicle.
If you bought some dielectric grease and are wondering how to use it, you have come to the right place. This guide will help you understand what it is, why you should use it, and how. Please keep reading.
How To Use Dielectric Grease On Spark Plugs
What is Dielectric Grease?
Also called tune-up grease, it is a lubricant that protects spark plugs and other components from rust and corrosion. It is viscous and waterproof. Dielectric grease mostly consists of a thickener and a silicone base. It is milky or greyish in color and is used in the following cases:
- Rubber lubrication
- Spark plugs
- Bulb sockets
- General connections (electrical)
- Trailor connections
Why Should You Use Dielectric Grease?
There are multiple benefits of using dielectric grease, which is why it is very popular even though it is not a necessity. Let’s take a look at some of these benefits:
- Avoids leakage
- Protects against rust and corrosions
- Prevents overheating
- Prevents heat damage
- Ensures that no grime or dirt gets through
- Insulates in lower temperatures
- Avoids material bonding
How To Use Dielectric Grease on Spark Plugs
Follow the steps below – they are super easy!
- Ensure that your car is parked in a safe place and cooled down. The hood should not be hot.
- Open the hood.
- Open a spark plug boot.
- Using a clean, soft cloth, clean the boot as well as the spark plug.
- Take some dielectric grease on a cardboard piece.
- With a cotton swab, apply some of it to the boot’s inner wall. Make sure you don’t overdo it.
- Now, place the spark plug boot back in its position and secure it.
People also ask
We have received quite a few questions about dielectric grease and its importance. Our experts have answered some of them for you. Let’s go through them.
1) Where to put dielectric grease on spark plugs?
You apply dielectric grease on the boot of the spark plug.
2) What happens if you apply too much dielectric grease on spark plugs?
Too much of anything is too bad and this applies to dielectric grease too. Applying a lot of grease can meddle with the contact between the engine and the plug. This will in turn cause starting problems. So, be careful and apply very little.
3) Should I use dielectric grease on spark plugs?
For lubrication purposes, you can use dielectric grease. It is not compulsory, though.
4) Is dielectric grease necessary?
No, it is not.
5) Does dielectric grease improve connection?
No, it does not improve the connection. It helps you maintain it.
6) Is Vaseline a dielectric grease?
No, it is not.
7) Where should you not use dielectric grease?
You should not use it on plastics and silicone-based rubbers.
8) Can Vaseline be used as dielectric grease?
Many people use Vaseline as a substitute but our experts advise against it. Vaseline is not dielectric grease.
9) How do you dissolve dielectric grease?
90% rubbing alcohol will do the trick for you.
10) Can you use too much dielectric grease?
No, you cannot. It will cause multiple problems.
11) Will dielectric grease cause a short?
No, it actually removes the risk of a short.
Conclusion
If you plan to apply dielectric grease to your spark plugs, make sure you use it sparingly. Most car owners avoid it because it is not necessary and doing it wrong could lead to hassle. Some things are best left to the experts! If you have any doubts or questions about dielectric grease and its usage, don’t hesitate to talk to us.