I’m finally getting my new Badger set up and ready to go. I have the thin Badger vinyl hose, and a brass fitting that converts it to 1/4" pipe thread, which is the outlet from my compressor. It leaks too much air through the threads though, and the fitting isn’t a compression fitting. it’s just screwed on all the way to the end of the male thread. Are yours tight or do they also leak? Does it need pressure bleed?
Your thoughts.
BC
bondoman,
Perfectly cut NPT tapered pipe threads will not leak when tightened. We live in a imperfect world so what you need to do is purchase a roll of Teflon pipe tape. Take the offending fitting apart and apply a few wraps so the tail is pointing with the direction of the threads when you tighten. Keep the tape a few threads away from the end to avoid it getting into your system.
I have the same setup and there really isn’t enough excess thread to allow for the tape to be used like that. I used beeswax. Melt a bit and apply to the threads and screw on. Air leaks are GONE!
On smaller fittings split the Teflon tape down the middle and wrap tight, the threads will show through the tape and two complete rounds will be enough. Its ok if it laps over the hexagon nut used to tighten, keep it 1.5 to 2 threads away from the end to ensure none contaminates your air system. NPT tapered threads are designed to be turned in three revolutions by hand followed by three with a wrench, leaving two complete threads exposed. After its tight and leak proof remove excess tape with a brass wire brush.
I do not like liquid Teflon as it is messy, expensive and hard to remove when dry. TF-15 or ‘Pipe dope’ is more of a lubricant for larger fittings helping with friction during assembly.
The tape worked like a charm. I folded a piece in half lengthwise and gave it a few turns. The fitting went on just right- loose then stiff.
Wow, compared to the old Testors, this new Badger puts out a gale. Going to need to rejigger my preffered pressures etc. but it looks to be a big improvement. Kind of like a power mower after using a hand pushed job for years.