PTFE Tape & Shower Mixer Bar

[Eddman]

Hi there, having a few problems fitting a shower mixer bar. I have fitted backboard type connectors to a board between the studs. I then wrapped PTFE tape around the threads of the 's-connectors' and screwed them in to backboard elbows. I have screwed then in as far as they can go and they are slightly off 150mm centre to centre. they don't leak. I then put my shower mixer bar on and after a week of no leaks - i wasn't using the shower but the water was turned on - a drip started from where the mixer bar attachs to the larger end of the 's-connectors'. Why would i not use PTFE tape on this connection? The only reason is that the instructions for the shower say to use tape on the 's-connector' to elbow joint but not on the shower to 's-connector' joint. Is there a reason? I think i may have over tightened the shower and ruined the washer in there so i have bought new replacement washers - but was just wondering what would happen if i applied the PTFE tape to this joint too - would it help or hinder?

thanks for any advice...

 

[Madrab]

It's just not needed. The rubber washer is all the seal that's required. You only need to 'nip' that connection up, be careful not to overtighten.

 

[Eddman]

cheers Madrab - already ruined 1 pair of washers by overtightening! i am going to try again this evening and not tighten too much. Will there be an issue that the 's-connectors' are not exactly 150mm centres? i can get the threads of the shower on and tightened - just wondering whether this may cause a drip?

 

[Madrab]

As long as you can tighten the nuts up all the way without them being tough to turn then they should be fine. Personally I never use them, ridiculous things IMO.

 

[Eddman]

what are ridiculous? the 's-connectors'? the shower came with them and i am not experienced enough to know i could have ditched them and use a different connection!!! maybe next time!!! haha, thanks again

 

[Madrab]

Yeah, they're just a fafff. Next time just run level pipe tails through the wall at 150mm centres then use these.

Job's a guddun

 

[Eddman]

where do i get them from Madrab?

 

[muggles]

https://www.screwfix.com/p/bristan-bar-valve-wall-mount-10-fixing-kit-chrome-plated/13771

Agree with Madrab, S connectors are schite. Might be too late for you to change now though...

 

[Madrab]

Yeah +1, it would mean getting back into the wall and extending the pipework out, so if the wall's finished then maybe not worth the hassle ...