How to Open up and Clean Old Electrical Plugs

Corrosion on the contacts can cause all kinds of electrical problems

The electrical plugs on 1995 and older Mercedes have a tendency to corrode when exposed to high moisture enviornments. When they do corrode - you will not see the corrosion - and you can end up having all kinds of weird electrical problems. Kent recommends you separate each plug, clean both the male and female contacts, put a very thin film of dielectric grease on the contacts and reconnect each one. 

Problem & Solution

Common among these chassis:

Classic Sedans
Ponton
W110 W111 W112 Sedan
W111 W112 Coupe
W113
W108 W109
W114
W115
R107
W116
W123
W124
W126
R129
W140
W201

Cleaning the male plugs is easy ( use a brass or nylone brush ) but cleaning the holes in the female part of the plug is not easy unless you have the right small round brush. The proper set of brushes can help you quickly and effectively  clean those key contact points.

If the plugs are corroded they can be very difficult to separate without breaking the plastic housings. See related products below for Kent's favorite tool and watch his demonsration video under the item description.