Thread locking products - proper use

[reelnellie]

My normal approach with Locktite is to clean the screw and the recepticle, add Locktite to both sites, install and wipe excess. On a recent TV show (not sure which one) scope installation was covered by a factory rep. He stated all that was necessary was to tighten the screws to specs and add Locktite to the heads. Is this right?

 

[Patrick White]

I've always done it the way you do. IMO that's the right way. Putting it on the head does noting for the part that actually holds the screw in, the threads.

 

[big6x6]

Locktite is THREAD locker. Put it on the threads. I do it as both of you do and that IS the correct way.

 

[jims]

I agree. It makes no sense to me to put lock tite just on the heads after installation. It does not even get to the place it needs to help.

 

[Redclub]

Lock-tite does make a wicking threadlocker it is no. 290 however it is not the best choice for this application, The best choice is lock-tite 222 (purple)(low strengh) which is for small screws,a lot of folks use no.242 (blue) which is for nuts and bolts (medium strengh). For all lock-tite products a primer/cleaner should be used. If the hole is a bottom hole put a little dab in the bottom and a little on the threads.
Redclub

 

[reelnellie]

Redclub, thanks for the advice on the type of Loctite. I have always used the blue. Time to get the purple.

 

[Redclub]

Back when I used to work for a living I gave seminars on lock-tite products, I have a lot of there products lying around here, cases of some of the stuff.
Redclub

 

[jims]

TO Redclub: Does that stuff have a useful shelf life?