To Lock or Not to Lock, That Is the Question

[Colonist]

As I screw together the suspension -- something I sincerely hope will not come apart of its own volition -- this question pops up, and I seek information/opinions.

When do you use a thread locker on pieces to be screwed together, and when do you not use it? Some people seem to use it routinely on everything that they don't use anti-sieze on (there's another question...). Others not so much. What do you think?

[Hankl]

If you never want it to come apart, lock it. If you need to lube it occasionally, don't. If it has a lock nut(Nylon or Distortion lock), cotter pin, you don't need loctite.

Hank

[Schulzie]

I would think having several type of lock tite available would be good also. They make several strengths. Use the low strength on something you don't want to come off, but will need to remove at some point. High strength for something that you won't need to remove. When/if I ever get to order a kit, I'd like to use some aviation hardware where I could. I'm a big fan of safety wire. It can be a PITA to do sometimes, but it looks cool (when done properly) and it won't come loose.

Also, there is penetrating lock tite, so you can apply it after assembly if needed.

[Colonist]

Thanks for the good info. Any thoughts on liquid vs. stick type product?


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"If I already knew how to do it, I wouldn't need to do it again."