Mark Fulton wrote:
> In the June 2 issue of VeloNews Tech Talk, Lennard suggests using
> plumber's tape on bottom bracket bracket threads. I've used plumber's
> tape on the hydraulic fittings when I was installing braided brake lines
> on my racing motorcycles, and once when I was installing a new gas
> range. But both of those applications utilize pipe fittings. They're
> tapered so initially there's a larger space between the threads of the
> two elements. That space gets smaller as the fittings are tightened. In
> these two examples, the plumber's tape is effective in preventing the
> escape of a fluid and a gas. Bottom bracket threads are parallel, the
> space between male and female threads is literally microscopic. I can't
> see how you could even start the the threading with plumbers tape
> wrapped around the cup threads. Tell me I'm wrong and I'll try plumber's
> tape on my next bottom bracket installation. That'll be this weekend.
>
> Mark Fulton
> Redwood City
> California
> USA
>
I only use it on welded aluminium frames, where the bracketshells are distorted considerably, to fill the gaps. It stops them from creaking. No need for it on steel frames in my experience, and tape or not, always use plenty of anti seize on both sides of the thread
-- mvg
Marten Gerritsen
Kiel Windeweer
Netherlands