Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/566732
26 // OWNER OPERATOR // AUGUST 2015 By Todd Dills Maintenance Matters Lighting plug and socket PM tips T he Phillips company shared their June edition of Qwik Tech Tips newsletter that detailed plug and socket preventive maintenance steps in trademark quick-and-simple format. Given the growth in use of magnesium and calcium chorides for road de-icing, plug- and-socket maintenance where the tractor connects to the trailer is more critical, Phillips says. The chemicals have been "found to be highly corrosive to brass and copper, which are the base materials for the contact pins used in plugs and sockets." MAINTENANCE STEPS: STEP 1: Clean plug and socket connectors with a socket brush and water (NO SOAP). STEP 2: Apply di-electric grease to all pins on both the plugs and sockets to prevent corrosion by keeping moisture out and increasing the fl ow of energy through the connection. STEP 3: Plugs – To safeguard against uneven wear and pin degradation, every six months, rotate the electrical assembly plug from tractor to trailer side, or replace the plug inserts at the front of the plug. STEP 4: Sockets – Use a foam socket seal for added protection against corrosion creeping into the trailer harness via the 7-way connection. OO