#14 Permatex: will it work?

[Walker]

Almost got everything together for my Westach fp gauge install. Some were saying they used Permatex #2 (which is a gasket sealant) for their fittings. I found #14 thread sealant w/ teflon. It sounded like a better idea. Will this stuff work for all my fuel fittings (to go at the inj. pump, and [thanks to fj40]:remote sender location)?



I also need a little help on some final details:



I'm doing the "cubby hole" install and wondered where everyone was getting 12v power, ground, and which wire (closest location) to tap the dimmer/dash lights.

And, what gauge wire (looks like about 20ga. ) should I use to lengthen the gauge wires, and what are the best connectors?



Any other tips on the install would be a big help.



... one other thing I just noticed. Do the plastic tube "spacers" that go behind the gauge have to be the same length? Does it really matter? Mine aren't and just wondered if it will affect the "flushness" of the mount.

 

[emarsh]

http://www.gsasupplyco.com/

this is the only real fuel thread sealer, it is used at gas and diesel pump installations by professionals worldwide

 

[illflem]

I've had problems with Teflon paste weeping over time when used with diesel. Permatex #2 works great though.

 

[QRTRHRS]

Originally posted by illflem

I've had problems with Teflon paste weeping over time when used with diesel. Permatex #2 works great though.

That's what finally stopped my transfer tank seepage.

 

[fj40charles]

Walker,



I got my 12 volt power for the sender from the second cigarette ligher. This would be the one closer to the passenger side and is switched (must have ignition key turned on) for it to work.



I also tapped into the light for the cigarette lighter to provide light for the gauge. It will dim like the rest of the lights.



For the ground, I removed the panel just under the steering wheel and used a self tapping screw on the sheet metal there.



Hope this helps.



Charles

 

[Walker]

Thanks for the replies. Going for the install this weekend.

 

[JohnE]

I'm an OEM Engineer. We have better luck with teflon paste products for threaded connections. Permatex #2 will work on threads if you warm the tube before application and force the product deep into the threads.



As with any thread sealer, keep it back a couple threads from the end. All of these products will do a number on a pump if it gets in there.



-John

 

[Walker]

Is it absolutely necessary to use a thread sealer then? Or is it just a precaution thing? NPT threads are pretty snug already.

 

[JohnE]

Speaking as an OEM, yes! Absolutely!

We use it on all fittings and usually use Loctite 565 PST. We even apply it to threaded fitting that come with preapplied sealant, such as Vibraseal. Most of those vendors don't apply enough and the fittings will leak.



The biggest drawback I find with teflon paste products is the slow cure. Permatex #2 or my favorite, liquid aviation formula (cannot remember number) set faster.



Do not use teflon tape!



-John

 

[Walker]

JohnE, thanks for the help, but... you said first you had better luck with the "teflon pastes", then you said you didn't like the slow cure rate, and #2 would set up faster.



So, is Permatex #2 a teflon paste as well that just sets up faster, or is #14 "with teflon" the better choice.



I'm a little confused now, and just want to get the right stuff for a "one time" install.

 

[JohnE]

Sorry I confused you.



Either product will work great on the RAM.



We have a lot of problems with air systems leaking due to the 100-120 PSI operating range and that means a teflon paste product. Because of some SS plumbing we use only Loctite 565 paste.



Permatex #14 is a teflon paste and needs around a few hours to set up and around 24 hours to cure. The #2 is not teflon based and is usually ready in less than an hour to hold pressure.

We use #2 to seal the gaskets and bolts for the Emco-Wheaton pressure relief valve and fast fill (whistler) valves on our diesel tanks. If you use it on threads, it must be warm to flow freely and forced deep to the root.



I <em>will</em> state again

<b>DO NOT USE TEFLON TAPE</b>



-John