Is there such a thing as a GOOD contact cleaner and lubricant?

[K2OWK]

I know a lot of people don't like this product for some reason, but I use Radio Shack contact cleaner and lubricant. I have used it for years with no problem on both rheostats and contacts. It is a little pricey the cost is $11.99 for 4.5 oz, but it lasts a long time.

Just my opinion.

73s
K2OWK

[KC8OYE]

why not clean them, then add a very generous smearing of DiElectric Grease like what is used on automotive ignition systems? it should work well for your switches too.

No, No, NO! NEVER do that!

Been there, done that, and never again.

I do appreciate your thoughtfulness, though. :-)

ok.. That's why I phrased it as a question... It seemed somewhat obvious so I thought there may be a good reason not to!

i bought a can of contact cleaner & lubricant from radio shack.. haven't had a chance to try it.. was going to see if I Could repair my power-mirror switch in my car with it

[W0BTU]

why not clean them, then add a very generous smearing of DiElectric Grease like what is used on automotive ignition systems? it should work well for your switches too.

No, No, NO! NEVER do that! Been there, done that, and never again.

ok.. That's why I phrased it as a question... It seemed somewhat obvious so I thought there may be a good reason not to!

I found out what the problem was. Take a look at the qrz.com thread. That stuff contains 10% silica, an abrasive!!! Who would have thought that?

After much research, I decided to order the following products from caig.com:
DeoxIT®, #D5L-25CA
DeoxIT® SHIELD, #S100L-2DB

The D5 should clean the oxidation off. The S100 should keep the contacts from oxidizing again.

For fifty bucks worth of contact cleaner, it ought to!

Many thanks to all who responded. :-)

[K4JSR]

I knew it all along!!!  Pardon me while I gloat for a few hours! 
Seriously, Mike,  when in doubt ask the nice folks at Caig what they recommend.  They have a vested interest in your success.
I have seen their stuff rejuvenate switches and pots that I would have sworn
were far beyond redemption.

Another cute thing that will happen to folks who use a silicone lubricant will
find that they cannot repaint any surfaces that the silicone has come in contact.  Years ago auto folks recommended silicone polishes for long lasting
shine.  Then when collision repair or other body work became necessary,
they had to apply a "silicon killer" to the surface(s) to be repainted or the
paint would simply flake and fall off!

Enjoy your Collins gear for many more years.  I would fire it up regularly
though just to keep the electrolytic caps from reforming.   Just another
friendly "gotcha" from Chemistry in electronics.

73,  Cal  K4JSR  CET