Rust on GPS charger (USB mini-B end) - what to do?

[blackrain]

Not sure if this is the right place to post, but lets start here for now.

My wife's charger for her GPS has rust on the USB mini-B end (inside and outside) that plugs into the GPS. My guess is that she didn't listen to me when I explained to her that she should keep that end off of the cable off the car floor because water/snow will rust it.

Question 1: Can this continue to be used in the current condition. Logic dictates not

Question 2: Can I do anything simple or cheap to try to remove the rust? (obviously, I can buy a replacement charger, but that probably wouldn't be cheap)

Any advice?

 

[rudeguy]

pics?
I've used pencil erasers to remove thin layers of rust/corrosion.

I don't think its going to hurt if you use it. I've seen many, many cell phones who's charging ports were rusted but worked fine for years. (This is why you don't keep your cell in your cup holder)

 

[Mike]

I would just replace it, a new mini-b charger will run you $5 to $10 depending on shipping prices. I would recommend just getting a universal USB car charger. This just plugs into your car outlet like a normal charge, then just has a USB port. You can plug in a mini-b usb cable that you would use for your computer, or a ipod cable if you have and ipod etc.

If you don't have an extra mini-b usb cable, ask around. I know I have about 10-15 in a box somewhere.

 

[alfa147x]

I would just replace it, a new mini-b charger will run you $5 to $10 depending on shipping prices. I would recommend just getting a universal USB car charger. This just plugs into your car outlet like a normal charge, then just has a USB port. You can plug in a mini-b usb cable that you would use for your computer, or a ipod cable if you have and ipod etc.

If you don't have an extra mini-b usb cable, ask around. I know I have about 10-15 in a box somewhere.

Haha so did I... now when I need one I can never find one...

 

[dfnkt]

pics?
I've used pencil erasers to remove thin layers of rust/corrosion.

I don't think its going to hurt if you use it. I've seen many, many cell phones who's charging ports were rusted but worked fine for years. (This is why you don't keep your cell in your cup holder)

Pencil erasers are gods gift to cleaning contacts. You might have to add something just a *bit* more abrasive from time to time, I recommend a sugar cube or salt