I replaced the distributor cap and rotor in my 1976 C3 Corvette Stingray a few months ago, and while I was there (famous last words), I took the opportunity to clean the distributor base plate as well as the ignition module and the capacitor.
Unbeknownst to me, the factory recommended the application of "Silicone Grease," in the 1976 Chevrolet Service & Overhaul Manual, amzn.to/3aoi3JL
Since the guys behind the counter at two auto parts stores I visited looked at me like I was speaking in tongues when I asked about Silicone Grease, a quick search online said the dielectric grease was the same thing.
Well, maybe not the EXACT same thing.
After an hour or so of deeper online research, I learned that a far better compound for heat conductivity between the ignition module and the distributor's base, which acts as a heat sink, was to use the same kind of thermal paste as used on computers, and the product with the better reviews was Arctic MX-2 Thermal Compound.
You can also use Arctic Premium MX-4 Paste or Arctic Ultimate MX-6 Paste, which probably is the best option.
I applied the paste as shown in the video, and I've only run the car at idle speed for about 15 minutes since I'm in the process of replacing the radiator, so I don't have any real-world comments as far as noticing anything different. Having said that, sometimes that is the best outcome one can hope for. Besides, as long as the ignition module is cool, then so am I.
By the way, the only "service" possible when it comes to this solid-state component, is to replace it. I have provided a link to a professional ACDelco replacement unit below. They are not expensive so if yours is faulty, you may want to go ahead and order a new one and use a thermal paste like the one mentioned here.
Thank you for watching! 🙂👍🏻
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CORVETTE PRODUCTS (sponsored)
- ARCTIC MX-2 Thermal Paste: amzn.to/3lkJWfU
- ARCTIC MX-4 Thermal Paste: amzn.to/3yQYtmA
- ARCTIC MX-6 Thermal Paste: amzn.to/3n2fJTy
- ACDelco Ignition Module: amzn.to/3YYk6w5
- Ignition Control Module: amzn.to/3LwYcNp
- 1976 Assembly Manual: amzn.to/2GBuHrd
- 68-82 Corvette Manual: amzn.to/3devEEW
- How to Restore Corvette: amzn.to/35B6L0R
- Corvette Resto Guide: amzn.to/2QvvIGQ
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DISCLAIMER: Even though I like to wrench on my Corvette and most of my videos are of a how-to nature, I am not responsible nor liable should you decide to follow my musings on the subject.
The repairs and other work I do are for my own benefit and entertainment, and even though my videos may sound and appear to give technical how-to advice, that's not my intention.
Working on a vehicle is inherently dangerous. If you're not confident, qualified, or lack the tools to do the job correctly and safely, hire a licensed mechanic.
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