well with all the lighting issues i seem to have going on, i'm trying to clean up all the sockets and maybe just replace all the bulbs, but (1)how does one get all the grease out of the sockets, and can dielectric grease be used in its place, or does it need to be the same kind of stuff? (2)what is a good way to clean the contacts in the side marker light sockets? maybe jeweler files?

 

Clean the socket with electrical contact cleaner and blow it off with compressed air. I use a Dremel type of tool with a wire brush to clean the contacts that are accessable. Yes you can use dielectric grease when you're done. Auto Parts stores sell lil packets of it.

Lon

 

Auto parts stores also sell larger tubes of dielectric grease, which is more economical. Since I follow the factory service manual and apply the grease to all the door, hatch, T-Top, hood, window, and other body weatherstrip seals on an annual basis (yes, that is in the manual as part of a complete chassis and body lubrication), I tend to use quite a bit of it. Permatex P/N 22058 should be enough to get you going. That's a 3 ounce tube, which is easily enough for two cars' worth of weatherstrips, light bulb sockets, spark plug wire boots, WeatherPack connectors, and whatever else you might want to silicone treat. It doesn't quite last for two passenger vans, however. There's a LOT of rubber on vehicles if you start looking.

 

thanks, vader. i have a large tube of the dielectric grease - that's what you use on the seals? hmmm... guess i ought to do that after i get that dang thing "right" again. still battling that fuel pump and lights issue. probably gonna have to just throw in the towel and let a shop fix it... nobody seems to be able to figure out why it does it.

 

Check that thread again. I had a thought.