Loctite 248 Vs. 242: what’s the difference?
Loctite Blue 242 is intended for use during installation and not for already assembled or installed bolts. I have successfully used both of them on stainless steel without a primer, and they worked just fine.
- Loctite 248 Vs. 242: Specs & Uses
- My Hands-on Test of Loctite 242
- Loctite 248 Review – Loctite 242 equivalent
Loctite 248 Vs. 242: Specs & Uses
🔥Temperature Range
Loctite 248: -75°C to 150°C
Loctite 242: -65°F to 300°F
🆚Limitations
Loctite 248: Not for pure oxygen systems, chlorine, or oxidizers. Plastics may stress crack.
Loctite 242: Not for pure oxygen systems, chlorine, oxidizers or thermoplastics.
🛠️Common Uses
Loctite 248 is highly effective in preventing bolts and screws from loosening; performs well even in below freezing temperatures; can be used on stainless steel without the need for a primer.
Loctite 242 can be used to secure lens retaining rings, eyepieces, and optics kits; can be used to prevent bolts and nuts from vibrating loose in various parts of your vehicle, such as pellet gun bolts, rolling floor jack bolts.
Technical Info
My Hands-on Test of Loctite 242
✅Versatile Threadlocker
Loctite 242 is versatile. It works on all thread sizes, from 5/32 to 3/4 inches, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether I’m fixing my car, household items, or DIY projects, this threadlocker always works.
This product has a great shelf life. Even though the bottle may have an expiration date printed on it, usually around a year from manufacture, I’ve found that as long as the container is properly sealed, the adhesive will last for several years. In fact, my current bottle is at least five years old, and it still works like a charm.
Quality and Reliability
It’s important to note that, despite being packaged in a red tube, this particular threadlocker is indeed the removable variant. Its strength strikes the perfect balance, ensuring a secure hold while still allowing for disassembly when needed. I appreciate this versatility, as it gives me peace of mind knowing that I can make adjustments or remove components if necessary.
Loctite 242 vs. 271: Securing Chair Arms, Loose GPU Screw & Rolling Floor Jack Bolts
Compared to its sibling product, Loctite 243, the 242 formula is considered medium-strength, while 243 is medium-high-strength. This means that while 242 provides a strong hold, 243 offers even more bonding power and improved disassembly capabilities. However, 242 has a wider application temperature range and better tolerance for oils or other contaminants.
Loctite 242 vs. 243: Waterproof & Medium-Strength Applications Where a Fast Curing Time Is Desired
How to Apply 242
Remember to snip off the nozzle tip before using the adhesive. Don’t cut too much off, though, or you’ll end up with a mess. Once you get the hang of it, dispensing the adhesive becomes a breeze.
I’ve used Loctite 242 for a variety of applications, from securing the adjustment legs on my washing machine to preventing loosening on plumbing fittings and automotive components. Its versatility and reliability make it a go-to product for anyone dealing with threaded fasteners.
❌Cons: 242
Tried to push a pin into the top to open it as I only wanted a very small amount of tightener for a small screw, but that was impossible without resorting to heating the pin. So after cutting the smallest part of the tube top, I had too large of an opening.
FAQ of Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242
Q: Will this work on stainless steel bolts?
A: Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 is particularly suitable for applications involving less active substrates like stainless steel and plated surfaces, where disassembly may be required for servicing. Have a great day!
Q: What is the shelf life of the Blue 242? If I open it, use it once, and then store it, how long will it remain effective?
A: According to Loctite, the shelf life of Blue 242 is two years. However, many users have reported it lasting longer. I have personally used a tube that I opened four years ago, and it still appears to work well.
Q: Will Loctite Blue 242 work for securing a bolt in a power rear gate? I had to replace the entire motor because the bolt came out and stripped the threads.
A: No, Loctite Blue 242 will not work in that situation. I recommend using Red Loctite instead(See what is the difference between loctite 515 and 518). Ensure that the bolt is clean and free of any oil residue before applying the Red Loctite. Allow it to dry for at least an hour, or longer if possible.
Q: Is it safe to use this as a denture adhesive?
A: Yes, Loctite Blue 242 can be used as a denture adhesive. I have personally used it for ten years now, although I must say that it does affect the taste of corn.
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Loctite 248 Review – Loctite 242 equivalent
✅Pros: Loctite 248 Threadlocker Glue Stick
Compared to the traditional Loctite in a small squeeze container, the glue stick version is much easier to use. It eliminates the mess typically associated with the application and allows for easy access, even for the smallest screws. I appreciate its simplicity and efficiency, as it ensures that every screw is properly secured without any unnecessary fuss.
How to Use Loctite 248
Now, let’s talk about how to use 248. If you’re already familiar with it, you know that its primary purpose is to prevent screws from loosening on their own. The blue variant is not permanent, allowing for adjustments or removal of the screws with sufficient force. On the other hand, the red version is intended to be permanent and can be challenging to remove. For most applications involving pocket knives or small machines, the blue Loctite is ideal as it effectively holds the screws in place without any noticeable failures. It also offers the added benefit of easy removal for future maintenance, such as oiling up a knife pivot.
The application process is straightforward—I can simply dip the screw into the glue stick to get precisely the amount needed. This eliminates the problem of squeezing out excess adhesive and wasting it, which can sometimes occur with other container designs. In short, if you’re looking for a reliable way to keep your screws in place until you manually unscrew them, I highly recommend this glue stick version.
❌Cons: Loctite 248 Blue Threadlocker Glue Stick
While the glue stick is excellent for personal use, it may not be the most suitable option for heavy-duty applications. For instance, in a truck shop where Loctite is used almost every day, the small tube size might prove insufficient. These tubes are comparable to the size of a lipstick tube, which can be limiting for high-demand environments. However, for those who don’t require large quantities of Loctite, this compact packaging remains perfectly adequate.
One minor drawback I have noticed is that the glue stick version has a limited shelf life of only six months. While this may not be an issue for occasional users, it’s something to keep in mind for those who rely on Loctite frequently. However, I have found that the product remains highly effective within its shelf life, so it hasn’t posed a significant problem for me personally.
FAQ of Loctite 248
Q: Is Loctite 248 equivalent to Loctite 242?
A: It is mostly similar. The blue variant is essentially the blue compound in a paste form.
Q: Can Loctite 248 damage pleather or rubber washers? I intend to use it to secure a hex bolt on an expensive computer chair.
A: You should apply the product only on the threads of the hex bolt, not on the washers. Use a small amount on the threads at the bottom of the bolt, and as you screw it in, the product will spread and coat all the threads. This method should work well without causing any damage.
I’m Ronald Stevens, a Mechanical Engineer obsessed with adhesives, glue, and all things sticky! My passion began in childhood when I’d always be the one playing with glue during arts and crafts. And I’d spend hours researching and experimenting. Happy reading, and remember: stick with the best, and you’ll never be stuck in a mess!
Feel free to contact me and join our discussion:
Can I apply 242 to an already tightened bolt without removing it?
Loctite Blue 242 is intended for use during installation and not for already assembled or installed bolts. I would recommend removing the bolts and re-installing them with Loctite Blue 242 for optimal effectiveness.