Hi all
I remember reading about a product (years ago) to put onto the threads of lightbulbs.
It prevented them from binding up over time.
I often find that removing bulbs from ceiling fixtures after a few years a problem.
Is this some simple dielectric compound or something else?
Jeff
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Replies
vaseline?
You can use dielectric grease on the threads.
I think there is some type of lubricant for automotive bulbs^^^^^^
S N A F U (Situation Normal: All Fouled Up)
I've used "Sure Contact Bulb Grease" on some outdoor flood lights that often sieze up and it's worked fine. I think bLowe's may carry it.
Kevin O
The electrical connection is made by the mechanical connection as normally. It will push the grease aside.
But the grease will keep out moisture and air that can cause the corrosion that causes the bulb to stick.
On the other hand you DO NOT WANT A CONDUCTIVE GREASE.
Bill:
Are you worried that a conductive grease might short the contacts in the socket?
Some kinds will.
didn't you teach me the graphite (pencil) trick??
Not I.
yep, plain old graphite pencil...............like a #2 Ticonderoga.....my favoritist pencil of all time.
.
.
.Wer ist jetzt der Idiot
?
I like to put a very thin smear of antiseize compound on the threads of the bulb. I have some heavy duty antiseize that contains copper and is rated for temps up to 1500 degrees, and it seems to do the trick.
A variety of things have been used. As mentioned, auto part stores and lighting shops sell "bulb grease." There are also listed anti-oxidants, such as Noalox and Penetrox, that will work.
There are no dumb questions, only dumb questioners. :)
You can use petroleum jelly (petrolatum). A special grade of the stuff is sold as "TunerLube" by GC, and as contact lubricants under several other names.
If you want to get fancy, get some silicone "high voltage" grease, such as GC Z5. It stands up to heat a hair better. It's generally available from auto parts places.
(BTW, the stuff is also good to use on trailer light connectors and for auto light bulbs.)
You generally shouldn't use "no-ox" type grease intended for aluminum connections, as that stuff often contains metal and is conductive. Not a big danger, but a slight chance of producing a short with the stuff.
(And it's predictable that someone is going to scream that you should never use non-conductive grease, since it will prevent a connection in the socket, but they're wrong. The metal contacts have no trouble "displacing" the coating of grease where they come together, but the grease serves to exclude air and prevent corrosion at the contact point.)
Also should point out that you don't need much grease. A dab about the size of a matchhead on the center contact of the bulb, and another 2-3 similar sized dabs on the bulb's threads is all it takes. The stuff will spread around as you screw in the bulb.