Sealing compound for threaded connectors

[robrob]

I'll soon be replumbing a basin with new taps and connectors . When connecting a new brass (15mm by 1/2") MI coupler to an existing iron water pipe , what sealing compound would you advise ?

Please bear in mind that the threads in the iron socket are not brand new - they will have the remains of the ancient sealing compound ( hemp and Boss White perhaps ) in them , although I'll remove as much of it as I can .

Screwfix offer me Loctite 55 Pipe Seal Cord , Liquid PTFE in gel form , Pipe Sealant aka Pipe Thread Seal , Loctite Pipe Sealant , Loctite Thread Sealant Stick , Hawk White jointing compound , Water Hawk jointing compound and good old PTFE tape . Any comments please ?

And if whatever I choose doesn't work perfectly , is it too much of a bodge to wipe a bit of Fernox LS-X around the outside of the joint afterwards ?

 

[fumb]

I'm not sure if this is the right way but

I've had the same issues with my own DIY plumbing. I have used LS-X on the threads as sealer and have not had a single leak from a copper to iron fitting yet

 

[ChrisR]

Warm the socket to soften the goo and clean with a wire pipe cleaing brush - or your wife's toothbrush, at a pinch.
Tape should be fine, but if you're worried there's no law against putting a little Ls-x in there as well.

 

[robrob]

Thanks for both replies - reassuring and helpful .
I wonder why so many different compounds are available , though . There must be demand for them - so what advantages do they offer ?

 

[Nige F]

in a nutshell ........old ways/ new ways .............wholesome water/non wholesome water in the pipes

 

[howy1]

On subject of sealants has anybody heard of Chesterton Gold End paste as i would dearly like to get hold of some , its usually in 250 gram tubes or could be mililitre tubes . cheers mark

 

[Nige F]

Nearest I`ve used was Dinger Bell-end paste.........used it while welding

 

[howy1]

Sounds good i will have to try my local stockist

 

[Nige F]

8) too much welding

 

[Softus]

Nearest I`ve used was Dinger Bell-end paste...

Is this another of your wind-ups Nige?

 

[nortimax]

Nearest I`ve used was Dinger Bell-end paste.........used it while welding

Where can i get some bell end paste? Toothpaste is to gritty and stings.

 

[Nige F]

toothpaste is for Mast....ICATION.......RU Dylsexic