heatshrink waterproof?

[patman]

so i searched through threads to see if there was any other thread about this and i didn't find any

i recently put a new set of aftermarked lights on my explorer, right next to the license plate , and i know plenty about wiring, and i've used heatshrink on wiring splices, connectors, etc before

well i'm worried about my wiring getting wet (yeah i'm even too afraid to wash it i'm that paranoid) and shorting out, etc because of the water, so i was curious is heatshrink waterproof? if so i'll go get it washed and have some fun in mud, so if anyone could help me, i'd be happy

thank you

 

[Willard]

The heatshrink itself should be, but I'd seal up the end of the heatshrink with some good waterproof electrical tape.

 

[TheJackal]

I think they make "waterproof" heat-shrink tubing, which has some type of adhesive in it. Still, I would use a little electrical tape as devilboy222 suggested. You don't have to get carried away with it though; my dad seems to wrap a mile of it around everything...

That should be sufficient unless you plan on submerging the Explorer, which is not recommended for obvious reasons.

 

[Runesai]

I like to use a bit of liquid electric tape on the ends of the heatshrink, I've never had a problem with it.

 

[Willard]

I like to use a bit of liquid electric tape on the ends of the heatshrink, I've never had a problem with it.

This would be an excellent solution.

One thing I've used to repair outdoor extension cords is this tape made out of rubber. It's not sticky, you stretch it out and the rubber sticks to itself, and if you do it right, it makes a solid rubber jacket over the wire.

Edit: Here's what I'm talking about:

http://www.tessco.com/products/displayProductInfo.do?sku=83586&eventPage=1

Fusion tape, good stuff.

 

[patman]

wow thank you guys, it is very helpful

You don't have to get carried away with it though; my dad seems to wrap a mile of it around everything...

yeah, my dad has a degree in electrical engineering and he does the same thing, and he solders everything with like four extra pounds of solder

 

[skoal_mint]

Befor i heat the heatshrink, i put a dab of dielectric grease on the wire and heat from the middle out

 

[Runesai]

Befor i heat the heatshrink, i put a dab of dielectric grease on the wire and heat from the middle out

I like that idea, thanks.

 

[shortstack]

or use some good ol ABS Glue (plumbing)

 

[Sandy]

The liquid tape idea sound good, Great Idea... Runesai.

They sell Heat Shrink with glue in it, as the stuff shrinks the glue heats up and seal the ends; it is the only stuff that should be used inside and out but the regular heat shrink is cheaper.

If possible remove the other heat shrink and use new stuff with glue, that is if you don't try the liquid tape route.