happycheapskate
Active Member
Do not use thread adhesive on spoke nipples
I've built road, BMX, and mountain bike wheels. I only use 1 thing in preparation of spokes or during truing: 90% Isopropyl "rubbing" alcohol.
In a small squirt bottle or dripper bottle, it is convenient to run down the spokes, which will lubricate them temporarily and prevent siezing. It also acts as an astringent and helps get dirt and dust out of the nipples. When it dries, the spokes, if properly tight, should not move under cycling of the wheel, but may still be moved by a spoke wrench.
Tip: use tape-wrapped or filed smooth pliers to hold the spoke during final tightening sequences, to prevent spoke wind up.
If you just have to use something as an anti-corrosive or "threadlock", get Wheelsmith Spoke Prep, or Fingernail Polish (at Dollar Stores everywhere).
Threadlock, even the weak # blue type, is probably overkill for spokes, and may cause rounding off of the nipples when you try to adjust the wheel.
I've built road, BMX, and mountain bike wheels. I only use 1 thing in preparation of spokes or during truing: 90% Isopropyl "rubbing" alcohol.
In a small squirt bottle or dripper bottle, it is convenient to run down the spokes, which will lubricate them temporarily and prevent siezing. It also acts as an astringent and helps get dirt and dust out of the nipples. When it dries, the spokes, if properly tight, should not move under cycling of the wheel, but may still be moved by a spoke wrench.
Tip: use tape-wrapped or filed smooth pliers to hold the spoke during final tightening sequences, to prevent spoke wind up.
If you just have to use something as an anti-corrosive or "threadlock", get Wheelsmith Spoke Prep, or Fingernail Polish (at Dollar Stores everywhere).
Threadlock, even the weak # blue type, is probably overkill for spokes, and may cause rounding off of the nipples when you try to adjust the wheel.
The flesh mends in time, the lessons endure a lifetime!
I've used two different green Loc-tites, both good in their given applications:
"Wimpy" Green (can't remember #): A flange sealant. Good success using it to prevent air leaks in water-cooled 2-cycle crankcases.
"Thick" Green (CRS sux...): Cylindrical fit adhesive. Good for locking bearing races into slightly worn bores.
Wouldn't throw any of 'em out. Each color has the same basic ingredient, basically in different strengths. Any one will do in a pinch. Just go easy on the red!
I believe I remember a purple, too. Wimpier than Wimpy Green. For tiny, little fasteners. Thinking it'll help keep my spokes tight when I get around to building up some wheels. Double-walled rims prevent the rim strip (aided by tire pressure) from preventing rotation of the spoke nipples. Some pro builders recommend Loc-tite.
"Room temperature, self-(D***ed CRS!) anaerobic sealants": they're all good!
Yoda