Horn push connector squeak

[A TR7 16V]

Not a big issue, but there's a squeak from the steering every time I turn the wheel, which goes away when I take the cap off and pull the horn push connector up off the contactor ring. 

I've identified some electrically conductive grease, but thought I'd ask if anyones got experience of the problem and solution.

Graham

[Howard]

I was discussing electrically conductive grease with an ex National Power / CEGB engineer the other day. While its very good initially on electrical contacts it dries out over time and caused more problems than before so they went to using Vaseline, which doesn't dry out.

 

[A TR7 16V]

Got some Vaseline, though I don't use it as the Bonzo's suggested. But will it leave the contact conductive enough?

Graham

[RobPearce]

The contact will essentially push through the vaseline so it's probably fine.

[Howard]

Quoted from Spitfire6-

Hi,

 I do not think Vaseline is a wise choice.

Iain

The Vaseline recommendation came from an old friend and my co-driver in the 10CR who has 45 years experience in the power distribution industry as a senior electrical manager, based on National Power / CEGB experience. Before that I would have considered other electrically conductive greases first, but the supply industry found they had problems.

I personally wouldn't use it at higher voltages, but at the normal 12v car power supply I wouldn't foresee any issues.

Howard (C. Eng, Elec Eng)

[Velocita Rosso]

As the ring and brush were not originally lubricated, why not just remove the steering wheel ,clean up the brass ring ,with fine wet and dry, do the same to the spring loaded brush ,on each end and then clean up and replace.

[A TR7 16V]

Didn't see the suggestion to just clean the ring first, and used a small dab of vaseline. But I did take the wheel off and clean with some kitchen role.

The back of the hub had previously caught on the stearing shaft and switch gear cover, and there was some light alloy swarf in there that might have been related.

Anyway, between the cleaning and the vaseline, it's certainly cured the squeak.  I guess I'll see if it lasts.

Graham

[Saltddirk]

In the days before politically correctness set in stating that vaseline cured a squeak would have triggered some witty response.

🤣

not allowed to say so but life is certainly duller now.

Back on topic, good on ya !