oil leaks and aluminum fittings

anchor2 · #1 (**permalink**) 02-26-2004, 08:23 AM

For whatever reason I am having a heck of a time with leaks at the oil fittings entering the block (stainless lines from cooler to block). They are loosening up over time and creating small leaks and making a mess. I’m considering a bit of locktite. Any tricks or suggestions I should know of?

Mr.Fixit · #2 (**permalink**) 02-26-2004, 10:02 AM

The pipe threads need some gooey liquid teflon sealant on them, then torque em down good and tight. If it is the flare fitting tapered cone part that is leaking, they make aluminum crush washers that help make the seal 100% tight.

anchor2 · #3 (**permalink**) 02-26-2004, 12:01 PM

Thanks fixit. I'll give it a try

Rick Bagley · #4 (**permalink**) 02-26-2004, 01:26 PM

If its the threaded part then Permatex Aviation Sealant is the ticket, good for oil, and fuel lines. Available at NAPA.

Rick Parker · #5 (**permalink**) 02-26-2004, 04:41 PM

Do the crush washers work well? I too have a minor leak at my oil cooler and I am afraid to tighten the nut on the fitting any tighter since I can not get a wrench on the base of the male fitting on the oil cooler, and do not want to fracture the solder/brazing that attaches the male port on the cooler.

Rick

Mr.Fixit · #6 (**permalink**) 02-26-2004, 05:01 PM

they do work well, the two places I used them on cobras:

flares on the stainless hardline for fuel

oil cooler