New radiator leaking from insert

[scottybwoi]

I have just fitted new radiators throughout with new TRVs and lockshields.
Some of them are leaking from the inserts on the TRV side. I have used PTFE but only 4/5 wraps. I read somewhere I should wrap it 20 times.

What could the problem be?

 

[petit_pablo]

More ptfe.

You'll struggle to get 20 wraps on a rad tail but make sure you get a good overlap on each wrap.

 

[ALCPlumbing]

I do about 16 wraps on a rad tail. Make sure you wrap it tightly.

 

[HERTS P&D]

I do 12 wraps.

Andy

 

[sooey]

17 for me, and run them into the thread with your thumbnail.

 

[Agile]

I usually do about 12-14 turns.

But the thicker PTFE tape sold for gas pipes is usually far better.

I really don't know why rad makers cut the thread so deep on rads so we have these problems.

Tony

 

[vulcancontinental]

I use hemp and paste and on occasion gas tape with no problems. Now I'd use the Loctite string suggested by MickyG.

Agile, rads are rads, we are there to get over it, just be grateful the old Thorn rads are not available anymore, their threads were atrocious.

 

[Agile]

Rads are rads that quite true.

Now I don't know what is wrong or why!

Something I expect to do with specifications for pipe threads.

Quite likely the rad makers are using dimensions designed for pipe joints using hemp or some other historical reason which is no longer relevant.

Although I only fit a relatively small number of rads I find it intensely annoying that the threads are not cut more conveniently.

Another aspect is that the pipe insert on a Drayton TRV, my choice for quality and appearance, virtually disappears into the rad tapping!

Tony

 

[oph]

10-12 with a tiny smear of lsx.

will never let by........ ever

 

[longdogs]

15 for me

 

[vulcancontinental]

Still carry the 1/2" tap for the Thorn rads, they were so bad I'd clean them before making up the rad.

 

[doitall]

Loctite 55 string and follow the instructions on the can

 

[stardanny]

18 time, for the last 18 years

Apart from tower rails which is a bugger to seal.

Daniel.

 

[St0rmer66]

8 is usually fine for me! Never have leaks.

 

[doitall]

8 is usually fine for me! Never have leaks.

So all that water on the Somerset levels was absolutely nothing to do with you them