IRS Plug Thread Sealer - What Does Ford Use?

[cv2065]

Hey guys. Pulled the plug on my 30 mile IRS takeout tonight. Man, I would have bet that it had no fluid shipped with it, and almost didn't put a drain pan under it, but the crystal green life blood came a draining out..and lots of it. It was nice and clear, so obviously fresh, and the drain plug had a little bit of that micro fine black goo on it, which I know is normal.

Question is in regard to the drain plug. Highly magnetic, which is great, and it had some red thread sealer on the threads. This doesn't readily come off, so looks like Ford uses some good stuff. What should be used over the top of this when reinstalling the plugs? Anyone know what Ford uses?

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[Just puttering]

If it was me, i would run it like it is. Dont add anything. I doubt the drain plug would ever leak! No irs experience for me, just other diffs.

For our pilots, would aviation form a gasket work on threaded parts? It is good stuff.

[edwardb]

Nothing exotic needed here. Little bit of added thread sealant would be good since the OE stuff is mainly a one-time use. I've used both Permatex and ARP thread sealant. Either would work fine.

[cv2065]

Thanks for the feedback! I've always used the Permatex Hi Temp thread sealant. I'll probably use a little of that.

[frankb]

CV:

Those threads are tapered, possibly NPT, and don't require sealant. However, a good anti-seize compound should be used!

Frank B

[edwardb]

Hmmm... Pretty standard practice (automotive and otherwise) to use thread sealant in NPT threads. Yes they're tapered threads and that's where the sealing comes from. But still totally normal and a good idea to add a dab of sealant. Makes sure no spiral leaks can happen plus lubes the threads for installation.