Shower Valve Elbows...problem!

[sergeantash]

I've bought a new Triton shower valve (specifically an Aspirante - http://www.housetohome.co.uk/produc...wer_529.html?subslug=/products/room/bathroom) and I'm now planning its installation.

The valve doesn't come with elbows for the hot/cold supplies so I've bought some male 1/2" coupler elbows to insert into the inlets BUT to get the elbows to point downwards, I have to avoid screwing the elbow in completely - how do I get around this?

I'll use PTFE tape but should I also use some sort of compound or would PTFE tape suffice if not screwing them in entirely (approx one rotation from fully closed).

This valve isn't the same but it gives you an idea of the parts I'm talking about, see the elbows labelled number 4 below:

Appreciate your help!

 

[TicklyT]

Tapered threads are designed so the final assembled position can be adjusted by the changing the amount of PTFE tape applied before assembly.

A bit of guesswork is involved, along with a 'feel' for how tight the fitting needs to be to get the joint watertight and looking in the right direction.

If the joint goes past the direction you are aiming for, don't just back it off, as it will probably leak. Dismantle it and add some more tape.

If it doesn't run into the fitting far enough, take some tape off.

Parallel threads are usually sealed by a soft washer on the joint face. The manufacturer would probably expect you to use a straight connector to a short piece of pipe with something like a compression elbow on t'other end to achieve any necessary adjustment.

 

[sergeantash]

Thanks for your help Tickly,

Would I be best buying some straight connectors as you suggest with compression joints on the end, then screw those as far as they'll go into the unit, adding some washers too?