In-tank thread sealing (drain pipe small leak).

[kilnakorr]

I'm trying to figure out, how to get my drainpipes to stop leaking.
The leak is between the 'bulkhead' (not using a bulkhead, but similar) and the drainpipe threads inside the tank. It's a small leak and issue would only be if retun pump fails while I'm away for several days/weeks as it coul potentially drain my corner overflow.

I've tried varies gaskets and o-rings but nothing has worked 100% yet.

I've read about 'thread sealent', but not really available here (non that would be aquarium safe).

Any bright ideas? (maybe a picture would help?)

 

[sunken3]

i am not sure i follow what section of your pipe is leaking. i assume youre talking about the standpipe inside your overflow that would potentially drain just the overflow into your sump (and of water the water level is in your tank level to the overflow). i guess i am confused about the use of o-rings and gaskets with the threaded pipe. that said, i would just slap a thick layer of aquarium silicone on the threads and around. it should seal fine. hope that helps

 

[kilnakorr]

i am not sure i follow what section of your pipe is leaking. i assume youre talking about the standpipe inside your overflow that would potentially drain just the overflow into your sump (and of water the water level is in your tank level to the overflow).

It's kinda reverse from threaded bulkheads.
The male threads are at the bottom and standpipes has the female threading.
Yes, it only leaks into the drains very slowly.
I might just have to order som loctite 5331 (plastic sealent) and postpone the build for a few days.

 

[theMeat]

Clean threads with alcohol and apply some silicone. Be careful not to over tighten since silicone will act as lubricant until dry

 

[kilnakorr]

Clean threads with alcohol and apply some silicone. Be careful not to over tighten since silicone will act as lubricant until

I got this advice also. Howerver, I didn't really want silicone remains if I ever remove the stand pipes. Getting your hand down to the bottom in a corner overflow isn't easy.

I did however fix it, using silicone grease.
Everything nice and dry and comes apart very easily.

 

[theMeat]

I got this advice also. Howerver, I didn't really want silicone remains if I ever remove the stand pipes. Getting your hand down to the bottom in a corner overflow isn't easy.

I did however fix it, using silicone grease.
Everything nice and dry and comes apart very easily.

You can still unscrew it with silicone

 

[kilnakorr]

You can still unscrew it with silicone

Yes, I understand the bond on pvc isn't very strong.
But, there will be leftovers afterwards, which will be very hard to remove and make a new seal even more difficult.