Problem starting TLB in the cold

[Junkman]

Using Teflon tape can get you into a jam in a hurry when it is used on pipe threads. With Teflon tape, you loose to ability to know exactly how tight it is because there is very little friction. If you over tighten a device with a pipe thread, you can crack the block. Pipe threads, unlike a bolt are tapered. This taper is designed to create the friction that is necessary for a good seal. With a new item with pipe threads, the threads are very sharp and will also cut the tape as it is being screwed in. I have seen cast iron boilers that were ruined because an inexperienced person overtightened the pipe with Teflon tape on the threads and the cast iron was split open like a piece of wood as a result... Pipe dope is the better way.... and will do just as good a job of sealing the threads. This is one time more (pipe dope) is better, and more (Teflon tape) is worse. If you use Teflon tape for its original intended purpose, it is great. It was originally designed for use on old pipe threads that have been worn from assembly and disassembly. In the real old days, plumbers would use cotton thread and pipe dope to take up the gap that they now use Teflon tape for....

 

[Fungus]

You have a point although the way Teflon tape is marketed you tend to think differently. Makes you wonder why my dealer gave me a bunch as a freebie. He said Kubota sends it along with their FEL’ and so they have a lot left over.

What’s a good pipe dope that will resist antifreeze?

 

[gsxr1100]

I agree with junkman but not for the same reason. I would not want Teflon tape floating around in the engine and maybe blocking passages etc. I would use regular pipe compound found at Home depot, Lowes etc. The compund should resist water, gas, propane, etc.

Also using pipe compound, lubes on threads will increase torque so be careful. Same thing happens here as stated in the above post.

 

[Junkman]

Kubota sends the Teflon tape for the hose fittings..... those are also tapered, but over tightening isn't an issue with these. As for Teflon tape floating in the system, you would have to put it over the opening along with putting it on the threads for that to happen. In that event, you should not even own a tool, because you don't know what you are doing. This comment is not directed toward any one person or persons, but is a general statement of fact, and not a flame. If this doesn't apply to you, whom ever you are, please disregard the comment. If this does apply to you, please don't start a war over this, because it isn't going to change your ability to use tools. If you are going to use Teflon tape, use it intelligently and with caution. If you use dope, you are either wise or foolish...... depending on what type of dope you use and are.... /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif
Rector-Seal is a good product and there is another that I don't remember the name of that I have also used.... it is blue in color and possibly someone can help by putting a name to this...
Wonder is this will past the Bird test???? /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

 

[Egon]

From a few years of obseravation I find that the "Bird" has it right.

Egon

 

[Junkman]

You have that right..... you couldn't find a more reasonable, honest, compassionate, understanding, and even handed person to be a moderator..... must be his backround....know when to arrest the bad guys and when to let some one go..... Go Bird..... Voted the #1 moderator of 2003

 

[gsxr1100]

I am not starting a war here and really do not care, but I must “bite” on this topic big time.

As far as what was posted above , “…As for Teflon tape floating in the system, you would have to put it over the opening along with putting it on the threads for that to happen. In that event, you should not even own a tool, because you don't know what you are doing. This comment is not directed toward any one person or persons, but is a general statement of fact, and not a flame. If this doesn't apply to you, whom ever you are, please disregard the comment. If this does apply to you, please don't start a war over this, because it isn't going to change your ability to use tools. If you are going to use Teflon tape, use it intelligently and with caution.

I disagree because of the following reasion(s): Tape floating is one of many reasons why they do not use this in aerospace (fuel control, etc) applications. It has blocked/restricted flow to fuel openings on valves, caught in nozzle openings, etc. To many unknowns with quality, workers (making over $27 per hr) doing the installation etc, not knowing if it “really” sealed, torque, removal….along with other reasons per mil standards.

Again not saying it is wrong just know I have seen in the past and asked about “why” in design meetings. I could fill up TBN website with the junk the gov needs.

Now back to the regular TBN broadcast...

 

[Junkman]

If my $15,000 Kubota tractor was built to aerospace quality control standards, it would probably add an additional two zeros to the end price. I still maintain that teflon tape is safe when used properly, but that pipe dope is a better product. Its application has to be considered before using and determined if it is correct for the job at hand. It isn't correctf for all jobs and not all people know how to properly apply it. It isn't rocket science, but it can certainly mess up a job if not used properly. As for $27 per hour people using it properly, I can't comment. How much a person makes per hour isn't a indication of the their quality of work.

 

[gsxr1100]

I agree when used properly “for a home fix it job”, but it still again does not close a lot of issues people do have when using it. Can it be used, sure but use with caution? I personally would just use the compound but that is me….

Also I do not know what you mean by aerospace quality? All the machines (cnc, 4-aixs, 5-axis) are mostly the same tolerance wise (unless you have 30+ year old items). I will not go into it, but the machines that “cut the chips” are a common tool in today industry. The cost factor is just the paper work, stamping, etc…..That is not rocket science

As to the hourly yet, yes wage is a huge factor when doing work. Do you think a manager of a company would have the same performance, quality and responsibility as the person making minimum wage …. think not. I see it everyday..

 

[Fungus]

B21nut, I would be happy to loan you my 17MM bit but I think the shipping would cost more than it.

I feel comfortable using the Teflon tape. Yeah, ya do have to know which way to wrap it and not to let it overhang the threads. Also, don’t over tighten the fitting. Just enough so it stays in, don’t leak and is orientated correctly for the AC cord.

Otherwise, it sounds like a no-brainer using the pipe "dope". I guess I’ll pick some up the next time I’m at the store - no sense in thinking too much /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif