Do you know what keeps the spark plugs functioning smoothly? It’s the lubricant. Using a spark plug lubricant such as dielectric grease is often overlooked by many but it’s essential. In this article, let’s talk about the importance of using dielectric grease.
What is dielectric grease on spark plugs?
Dielectric Grease Applied on Spark PlugDielectric grease, also known as tune-up grease is made from silicone base and a thickener. It physically appears to be slightly translucent gray or clear milk color.
A dielectric grease is a water-resistant, non-conductive compound that is frequently applied in vehicle maintenance to protect and seal off from high-voltage wiring connections from rust and dirt. In addition, it is made of various components however, majority of dielectric greases are made by combining silicone-based and a thickening like polydimethylsiloxane or polymer.
It’s an electrical insulator, so it’s really crucial to know where should you put dielectric grease. It is advisable to use dielectric grease on spark plug terminals since its purpose is to help prevent the spark from the ignition coil from spinning around the spark plug boot to ground.
While doing this process, you should be careful not to get any grease on the metal terminal, since this will block the electrical connection. To add more electrical insulation, you can also use dielectric grease inside the spark plug boot.
What are the advantages of dielectric grease?
Dielectric Grease ApplicationIt is important to know the advantages of using dielectric grease for your vehicle’s spark plug. Here are several major advantages:
- Temperature resistance
- Enhance electrical conductivity
- Corrosion prevention
- Protection against moisture
- Effortless application
- Versatile
- Prevent leakage of voltage
Why do you need dielectric grease on your spark plugs?
Dielectric Grease for Spark PlugsBasically, it is not a requirement to put dielectric grease on your spark plugs. However, it can help improve the performance of your engine and longevity, if applied by the right amount. Dielectric grease helps the current flow of the electric by sealing off the electrical wirings from the coil of the ignition to the spark plug.
Using dielectric grease can also help avoid voltage leaks in the ignition system and can help expand the lifespan of your vehicle’s spark plug up to 100,000 miles. This is doable when dielectric grease deters unnecessary electric discharge and prevent the spark plug boot from linking with the parts’ ceramic connection points.
Applying Dielectric Grease on Spark Plugs: Step-by-Step Guide
Don’t know how to apply dielectric grease? No worries, we’re here to guide you. Here is an easy step-by step guide for you.
Step 1: Pull out and clean the rubber boot and the spark plug.
Step 2: Onto the cotton swab, squeeze a little amount of dielectric grease because adding too much may result to poor connection of electricity.
Step 3: Apply the grease to the rusting region or in the ceramic part in a circular pattern.
Step 4: Take care not for getting any grease on the metallic terminals.
Step 5: Reassemble the spark plug and the spark boot back to the vehicle’s engine.
FAQs
What happens if you don’t use dielectric grease on your vehicle’s spark plugs?
As mentioned above, it is not necessary to apply a dielectric grease, however, without dielectirc grease may result to failing of your plug cap and carbon tracking. Also, it will be a bit harder to remove the plug cap next time you replace it from the spark plug. It’s a preventative measure rather than an essential necessity.
Does dielectric grease create misfire?
It is possible that it can create a misfire if you apply too much dielectric grease or when you use it on incorrect location. Thus, working on a vehicle ignition system, dielectric grease should be used cautiously and solely in the proper area.
Conclusion
The dielectric grease is a useful lubricant that insulates and preserves several electrical wires in your car. It prevents moisture, dirt, and rust while also assisting in preserving the electrical wire required to ignite the engine. This type of grease can prolong the lifespan of your spark plugs.
