2-3 turns of Teflon tape starting 1-2 threads from the end, should be
plenty, plumbers putty is for sealing around sink rim/counter joints etc.,
pipe thread dope (e.g. Rector Seal #5), may be the best for the PVC
fittings. If you do not EVER need to be able to unscrew them again then use
PVC primer (a PVC solvent) and a little PVC cement, but you will need to
thread quickly an dcarefilly to get tight enough but not too tight before
the cement grabs and/or softens and distorts the the threads too much. I
expect you will find pipe thread dope th easiest -- just don't overtighten.

"DickC" wrote in message
...
Teflon tape will seal, the Teflon cold flows easily under pressure. BUT,
too
many layers can cause PVC female fitting to crack as the pipe threads
(tapered not straight !) tighten down.

PVC "dope" probably the best bet. Or, Use 2 or 3 wraps of tape and you
can
get good results, snug down carefully and don't back the joint up after
tightening.


"RB" wrote in message
...
Plumber's putty isn't intended to be used on pipe threads.

Be careful when using pipe dope on PVC that the solvents in the pipe
dope don't soften the PVC pipe over time. Most pipe dopes are intended
to be used on copper, brass, or steel. They don't dissolve in organic
solvents, PVC does.

RB

Steve wrote:
Putting a pool filter together. When done with the teflon tape, about
8-10
windings, I get slight leaks where the PVC fitting threads into the
valve
housing also where the PVC threads into the pump. A hose came off and
the
pool drained to the skimmer level so I'm going to disasemble and redo
the
fittings.
I bought plumbers putty thinking it may work better???
The guy at the store said to roll it into a snake and wrap around the
threads. I didnt like that method so I worked it into the threads all
around
both the male and female threads. I assembled one fitting and pulled
out
the
putty that was forced out while threading the peices together.

I have a couple of joints to go but was hoping for some expert advice
on
the
proper/best way to make a water tight connection. I wont know if it
leaks
untill I fill the pool to the proper level and turn on the pump. Then
its to
late (or at least a pain) to fix.


Thanks for any advice!!!

Steve