linderpat

Pulling pod this weekend to replace ignition switch and replace combo switch and the pod itself (found a decent one on ebay, so my bad covered pod goes).

The question is, is an eraser the best way to clean/refurbish the electrical connections on the soft pcb in the instrument cluster and for the other electrical connections? I recall reading here once before that a solution cleaner is better. If so, what is it? Rubbing alcohol? Perhaps Alan is around to offer guidance this evening?

Also, is there a tool for pulling apart those hard to disassemble wire harness connectors? When I do my intake R&R, I have a feeling that those brittle, under the hood connectors will break and crumble as I try to pry them apart. Thanks folks...

Alan

Personally - although lots of folks have used this method I'd prefer not to - its a little too abrasive for me. I might consider it if the contacts were very badly corroded but not otherwise.

damaging the surface usually speeds up further corrosion and can completely destroy the top layer leading to worse contact for material, thickness and flatness reasons...

You can find differet types of solutions for contact cleaning and for contact protection. Find types for contact cleaning and use a Q-tip or similar to apply. Your goal is bright shiny surfaces - but not scratched or abraded. many contacts are plated - so its a thin layer. Contact protectants are for the most part best sprayed on after the contacts are mated - their goal is to stop further deterioration - usually by creating a seal. Some of these do not actually conduct that well so you don't want to spray them on before you mate them.

Stabilant is one (expensive) dual purpose cleaner and stabilizer/protectant. Good but pricey.

Alan

linderpat

Thank you...

linderpat

btw, having a "tech session" gtg on this at my place this Saturday (starting early, and will have beer on hand) - all are welcome. PM for address and directions if in the area and interested in stopping by, helping, or wrenching on your car....

Alan

BTW if when you take them off they look pretty good - just clean them with IPA - just before you reassemble them.

Alan

SharkSkin

A good quality pencil eraser won't scratch the contacts enough to be a problem. Unless the later cars' connectors are gold plated, I doubt there's much risk using one.

linderpat

hey Dave - your write up is what gives me the stones to pull the pod - you make it seem like a reasonable job, just take it slow.

SharkSkin

Exactly -- take it slow, don't force anything. Be especially careful dealing with the grommets on the PCB; if you re-swage them you have to be VERY gentle.