Preserving my coil wire

[Deep Seeker]

Hello everyone. I have two detectors. The rubber/synthetic sheath containing the wires running from my control box to the coil on one of the detectors has cracked and split. I can wrap it back up with electrical tape, but has anyone encountered this and used a different way of repair? Also, I'd like to try to avoid this from happening on my other detector. Is there a lube or protectant that anyone has been using which will keep that sheath from weathering and cracking? Thanks for any guidance.

 

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[victhedog]

WOW how old is coil?
a have a few coils that are older 10-15 years still in great shape
what are you cleaning them with?

 

[Deep Seeker]

The coil is from 2002. I rinse the coil and end unit down with tap water after each use. The coil is fine. The strand of wires coming out of the coil are enclosed within a sheath. That sheathing is splitting and cracking away ion areas.

 

[Beezly]

I bought some liquid electric tape from my local NAPA for occasional use at work. It gets painted on, just a small can with a brush built into the lid. It works well for cracked wire insulation on vehicle electronics where cutting the wire isn't a good idea and there isn't any corrosion in the wire. I've found multiple coats is best since its runny and goes on thin. It stays flexible and should work for a coil wire. I'm sure hardware stores would have it also.

I would be certain there is no corrosion or moisture in the crack before using, wouldn't want to seal any moisture in the wire.

Silicone paste, like Sylglide, Novaguard, or 3M, will keep the sheath hydrated and in good shape. Just wipe it on and wipe it off.

 

[foiler]

Instead of washing your equipment, wipe it down with a cloth then use car wax/polish everywhere. Lay your cables out flat, dampen a rag with polish and pull the cable through. I use that stuff in the orange bottle. Been around for years and it works very well for me. Whatever polish you use make sure it blocks UV rays. Keeping a good coat of polish on your gear will protect it from dirt sticking, water will run off and the sun won't be as nasty on plastic and vinyl coatings. I have machines from the 1970's I still use regularly. They look new with original coils and cable. Try it, you'll like it.