How do you keep nipples from leaking where they go in the pvc?

[jimmywalt]

I'm at my wits end............ I had GREAT luck with the first bucket waterer I made this summer with 3 nipples.

Since then I've tried to make a different version (smaller bucket) and for the life of me I can't figure out why they leak. I drill the hole the EXACT size as recommended. Actually they are nice and tight as I put them in the pvc....... So why do they leak??? Note black arrow in picture below.

It it because they are supposed to be installed in a flat surface and not a round pvc pipe? I've even tried waterproof silicone sealant and I have the same problem.

What do I need to do or use to permanently seal them to the pipe?

Thank you!

 

[marktoo]

I use Teflon tape on the treads. I've not had a problem.

 

[jimmywalt]

I use Teflon tape on the treads. I've not had a problem.

Ummm... I didn't think of that! But the hole is SOO tight that I don't think I could get that in there and the nipple too.

 

[marktoo]

Ummm... I didn't think of that! But the hole is SOO tight that I don't think I could get that in there and the nipple too.

When I did mine, I've done a large aspirin bottle, a insulated cup & some pvc. I didn't know what size hole I was suppose to drill so i started small & went up till it felt right, then taped. Perhaps it's so tight you're damaging the threads.

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

If they screw in, try the Teflon tape
If they PUSH in , use JB Weld or MarineTex epoxy

 

[jimmywalt]

Thanks everyone.

I decided just to take it all apart and use pvc cement...... I "think" that should solve the problem. The cement is drying right now, I'll wait about 1 hour for it to get nice and hard and then add water to the bucket and check it out.

Fingers crossed...... tight!!!!!!!

 

[Bama Rambler]

Are you threading the holes with a tap or just drilling the holes and letting the nipple do the threading?

If you're not threading the holes, you may want to. Those nipples are 1/8" tapered pipe threads. Get a tap and the right size drill bit and it'll seal much better.

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

Are you threading the holes with a tap or just drilling the holes and letting the nipple do the threading?

If you're not threading the holes, you may want to. Those nipples are 1/8" tapered pipe threads. Get a tap and the right size drill bit and it'll seal much better.

There are different styles
Some push into a plain hole for a wedge fit, and others need to be threaded in

http://www.qcsupply.com/420011-push-in-style-nipple.html

http://www.cacklingknobsfarm.com/livestock-supplies/screw-nipples

 

[bellschick]

Are you threading the holes with a tap or just drilling the holes and letting the nipple do the threading?

If you're not threading the holes, you may want to. Those nipples are 1/8" tapered pipe threads. Get a tap and the right size drill bit and it'll seal much better.

 

[bellschick]

What size drill bit are you supposed to use to make the holes for the poultry nipples?