![[H]ard|Forum](/styles/hardforum/xenforo/logo_dark.png){kind=logo}
I've read many posts where people recommend using a product called "pipe dope" on the threads to make a better seal. However, I found several sites that say Pipe Dope should only be used on metal-to-metal connections.
I'm wondering why so many people recommend it and if they have seen any damage by using it?
http://www.hunterindustries.com/resources/Technical_Bulletins/pipe_dope.html
-------------------
When pipe dope comes into contact with ABS plastic, certain oil based chemicals in the pipe dope attack the plastic and cause it to become very weak and brittle. Within days the weakened threads around the sprinkler inlet may get stress cracks and can leak profusely. Pipe dope is intended to be used as a sealant on metal-to-metal pipe threads only and thus should never be used as a sealant on sprinkler inlet threads manufactured with ABS. For this reason, we print "Use No Pipe Dope" on the body of Hunter sprinklers. Standard Teflon tape or plastic compatible Teflon sealant around the riser or swing joint threads is all that is required to prevent leaks around the inlet threads of Hunter sprinklers. The Teflon also provides a long-lasting lubricant should it become necessary to remove the sprinkler for servicing.
Many other plastic components are negatively affected by pipe dope, thus we recommend that the sealant standard should be Teflon tape on the threads of any components that are metal-to-plastic or plastic-to-plastic.
I'm wondering why so many people recommend it and if they have seen any damage by using it?
http://www.hunterindustries.com/resources/Technical_Bulletins/pipe_dope.html
-------------------
When pipe dope comes into contact with ABS plastic, certain oil based chemicals in the pipe dope attack the plastic and cause it to become very weak and brittle. Within days the weakened threads around the sprinkler inlet may get stress cracks and can leak profusely. Pipe dope is intended to be used as a sealant on metal-to-metal pipe threads only and thus should never be used as a sealant on sprinkler inlet threads manufactured with ABS. For this reason, we print "Use No Pipe Dope" on the body of Hunter sprinklers. Standard Teflon tape or plastic compatible Teflon sealant around the riser or swing joint threads is all that is required to prevent leaks around the inlet threads of Hunter sprinklers. The Teflon also provides a long-lasting lubricant should it become necessary to remove the sprinkler for servicing.
Many other plastic components are negatively affected by pipe dope, thus we recommend that the sealant standard should be Teflon tape on the threads of any components that are metal-to-plastic or plastic-to-plastic.