bulkheads leaking

[evoIX_Reefer]

I bought brand new bulkheads, made sure everything was clean and installed as hand tight as possible. Same crap - leaked

I did everything I could think of and still leaking.

One would stop and once I fix the other bulk then the other would start to leak (driplets)

If not from the bulkhead then from the fitting which is freaking annoying the crap out of me.


How many people used teflon tape (2-3 wraps) or PTFE paste? Any recommendations on threaded fittings?

Should I redo my plumbing for a third time? I have never had this many problem with ANY of my other tanks. I am trying to be very tedious with this tank and it is truly testing my patience.

If I could move onto the more exciting parts of reefing than worrying about leaks/water all over my floor. I would be more excited about this build.

 

[Todd31]

My plumbing is from gl-Sholes and I remember in their very detailed instructions they said most leaks are from things being TOO tight.

My first attempt leaked a little then I put way more Teflon tape on and I was good. More like 5 or 6 wraps.

Probably doesn't answer your question but figured I'd share my experience.

 

[duke62]

I use Teflon tape on EVERYTHING THREADED. I would not just tighten it with no thread protection.

 

[CleanYourTank11]

Teflon is your best bet but have to be careful like others said too little won't seal properly and too much will crack the fitting. The paste is good just messy and never frigging dries but better then a leak.

 

[evoIX_Reefer]

I figured the same thing and I don't think I tighten it enough initially.

Worst part is the water gushing down while trying to drain the overflow box.

 

[cmantis]

General rule is hand tight and then 1/4 turn with lock pliers. If not then tighten by hand with surgical gloves. Last setup I used the paste as I always forget which way to wrap the tape.

 

[SI REEF]

I have seen some people make the mistake on what side they put the rubber gasket on. The rubber side goes to the wet side.
I try and glue all my fittings or use a butterfly gasket (double sided). some come with a plastic washer to prevent the rubber from binding and causing leaks. If you use the threaded gasket, wrap the teflon clockwise around the fitting with the threads facing you. 3-4 wraps. tighten by hand and a 1/4 turn with bulkhead wrench or pliers as cmantis stated.

 

[Mattl22]

Would uniseals be an option for a tank with overflow box?

 

[jvu61]

may sound like something silly. you have to make sure you put the Teflon tape on in the right direction. with the thread so it does not unwind when you tighten.

 

[evoIX_Reefer]

Not silly. I just looked at si's comment and I didn't notice but I think I put it counter clockwise!! I did notice when I was replacing a fitting that the Teflon was gone. I am pretty sure this is my main reason for it.