Not silicone! (AKA RTV)
The stuff exudes/outgasses acetic acid as it dries, which corrodes
metals. The corrosion "grows" and puts resistive paths between
reasonably close adjacent conductors. CBers though it was hot shit for
weatherproofing coax connectors exposed to the elements when it first
became commercially available. 6 months or so later, they'd start
getting lousy SWR problems. Upon opening the connections, they'd find
white crap all over the interior of the connector bodies.
There is a special version of silicone sealant/gasket replacement sold
in automotive parts places (Permatex is one brand) that does work, it's
orange and says "safe for oxygen sensors".
There is also "blue", which I had recommended buying for safe
gas free use. It was a lot cheaper than other brands.
I have some white, most common, and I also have some black, these
from another manufacturer.
Never saw or had any problems of regular silicone 1 rtv.
I even tested it on a shiny copper board. No problems.
After a few hours any acedic gas is long gone after a short
time. I hear this corrosion guess all the time.
I have read many silicome reports and the one that said
rtv is microporous is OK with me. How else is the gas
going to escape. Long term use on my truck bolts,
confirmed rusting problems. It also requires moisture to firm up. It can
absorb humidity and cause corrosion after years. it also
can absorb and change colors after years.
I have used rtv on HV before it dried with no problem.
As far as Shoo glue ot Plummers Goop, they are my favorite for firm
holding, still with a little flexibility. Forget about taking it off.
Polyurathane is great for a firmer hold and stiffnes compared to rtv, but
it has problems with certain things. Takes a long time to cure.
greg
