
23/09/2025
⚡ DIELECTRIC GREASE: Most of yall thought it was for electricity right? WRONG!
Let’s set the record straight on one of the most misunderstood products in the marine world: dielectric grease!
❌ Myth: "Dielectric Grease Conducts Electricity"
Nope. Not even close.
The term "dielectric" literally means non-conductive — it’s designed to insulate, not conduct. So putting it directly on metal electrical contacts thinking it improves connectivity? That’s a common mistake and can actually cause issues, especially in low-voltage signal systems like outboard ECUs, sensor, & injector harnesses.
✅ What Dielectric Grease Actually Does
✔️Prevent moisture intrusion
✔️Stop corrosion at the terminals
✔️Keep salt, grime, and water out of electrical connections
✔️Reduce arcing in high-voltage systems (like plug boots)
It's especially helpful in marine environments where salt and humidity are always trying to destroy your wiring!
🔧 How to Use It Properly
The correct application method is:
Make your electrical connection FIRST (metal-to-metal)
Then apply a light coat of dielectric grease AROUND the seal, boot, or connector opening
This way it protects the contacts without insulating them from each other
For example:
On spark plug boots: Apply grease inside the boot, not on the plug tip
On Deutsch or WeatherPack connectors: Apply a thin layer around the outer lip or O-ring seal, not directly on the pins
💡 Where It Should Be Used
Spark plug boots (to prevent arcing & ease removal)
Sensor connectors (TPS, IAC, MAP, etc.)
Trailer harness plugs
Battery terminal boots
Anywhere water exposure is common — just not on the actual electrical contact points
🧠 Final Thought from us at EMT
We’ve seen countless outboards come in with misfires, communication faults, or no-starts caused by grease-filled pins — all because someone applied dielectric grease thinking it was "conductive protection." It’s not. It’s insulation.
Done right, dielectric grease is your electrical system’s best friend. Done wrong, it’s a silent killer.
Have questions? Want us to inspect or clean up some questionable connections on your boat? That’s what we do! Come see us.
EMT
Livingston Texas
936-239-1209