Loctite 262 vs. 263 vs. 271: What’s The Difference?
CURE TIME: If you’re in a hurry, 263 is your speed demon, fully curing in just 10 minutes without any primer needed. 262 is more of a slow and steady kind of guy, taking his sweet time with a 24 hour full cure. 271 splits the difference, getting ‘er done in about an hour.
Loctite 262 vs. 263 vs. 271: Specs & Uses
STRENGTH: The strongest of the bunch is 263, the middle schooler going through his rebel phase. With a high strength formula, this rojo locks down threads faster than you can say “adios” to stripped bolts. Meanwhile, 262 is the mild mannered one, with just the right amount of strength for most jobs. And 271 falls somewhere in between – reliable adhesion approved by automotive OEMs but still removable with some heat.
📝 My Hands-on Test of Loctite 263
✅Pros: Loctite 263
One of the first tasks I tackled was mounting a damaged idler pulley to an aluminum engine block. With the help of Loctite 263, the issue was fixed, and I could feel the mounting bolt holding tight, providing a secure and reliable connection.
Precision
When it comes to securing the timing sprocket on a diesel VW, precision is crucial. Even the tiniest bit of looseness can lead to a broken key. However, with the application of Loctite 263, I was able to eliminate any slop completely.
This compound proved to be far superior to typical silicones in “toothpaste” type tubes, as recommended by a mechanic friend at John Deere. It provided a sturdy and dependable hold, ensuring there were no leaks even after 10,000 miles on the rebuild.
Comparable to the Standard Red Thread Locker
After comparing Loctite 263 to other similar products, I found it to be highly comparable to the standard red thread locker without an oil sealer. Considering the price point, it is certainly a worthwhile product to consider for your projects.
❌Cons: Loctite 263
Finding Loctite 263 in local auto parts stores can be quite a challenge. However, I managed to get my hands on it through an online purchase. Although the shipping was delayed, the product itself lived up to its reputation. The reclosable top added convenience, and the bottle size was perfect, offering great value for the money spent.
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📝 My Hands-on Test of Loctite 262
✅Pros: Loctite 262
Speaking of applications, I recently used Loctite 262 on threaded parts in my car, and it proved to be the best product for the job. It provided a solid joint and prevented any loosening of the threaded parts. I have also used it on gas torches, where it effectively kept the spokes from coming loose, even though other lower-grade thread lockers failed in this regard. It’s important to let the Loctite sit and dry before using the equipment.
Performance
In terms of performance, the Loctite thread locker held together well when I used it on my rifle. It provided a secure hold and prevented any loosening of the components. The application process is simple, and the included applicator helps prevent overuse or spills. It’s a great buy, especially considering the convenient bottle size and the quick snap-close dispense valve.
❌Cons: Loctite 262
One minor issue I have noticed is with the packaging. It would be helpful if Loctite packaged the blue thread locker in a blue bottle to make it easier to identify the product and avoid any confusion. Additionally, I found it peculiar that Amazon covered the front label of the bottle with their own label, which is difficult to remove completely. These are minor inconveniences, but worth mentioning.
FAQ of Loctite 262
Q: Which option would be suitable for a motorized bike kit?
A: The choice depends on the type of fastener you are using, not the vehicle itself. Red threadlocker offers semi-permanence, while blue threadlocker allows for easier removal of the fastener later.
Q: Is a primer required when using Loctite 262? If so, which one should I use?
A: No, you don’t need a primer. Simply clean the threads with brake cleaner or isopropyl alcohol cleaner.
Q: Will Loctite 262 dry clear, or will the red color be visible?
A: The color of this product will not change, and it will remain clear.
Q: Which threadlocker should I use for guns, such as scope mounts? Should I opt for Blue 242 or one of the red options? There are numerous choices available, excluding high-temperature variants.
A: If you intend to use threadlocker on a scope mount or rings, I recommend sticking with Blue 242. See my test here: Loctite 242 vs. 271 
. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s torque settings when setting up a scope. I would also suggest investing in a reliable torque wrench to ensure that you don’t overtighten the hardware.
Q: Can Loctite 262 be used in fuel systems, specifically with diesel or gasoline engines?
A: It t is designed to be applied to dry nuts and bolts free of solvents. Use your own judgment when considering its use in fuel systems.
Q: How can I loosen the threadlocker once it’s applied?
A: To loosen the threadlocker, you will need to apply heat using a hot torch or a similar method. Red Loctite 262 is not easily removable, so if you anticipate disassembly, consider using blue threadlocker instead.
Q: Is this the most heavy-duty picture hanger available? There are other red pictures in the 27x part number range, but there is no description of their differences.
A: This picture hanger is one of the most heavy-duty options available.
📝 My Hands-on Test of Loctite 271
✅Pros
I rely on the Loctite threadlockers to secure leather straps with Chicago screws. It has significantly improved the longevity of our products. I have different variations of Loctite threadlockers to cater to specific usage scenarios. They allow us to maintain our manufacturing process with minimal changes, and they perform exactly as advertised.
Heavy-duty Applications
Red Threadlocker 271 is a high-strength adhesive designed for heavy-duty applications. It provides a holding power of 3,000 psi on slip and press fit assemblies. It is particularly useful for locking studs and press fits securely. If you ever need to unscrew anything secured with the red threadlocker, make sure to use the blue version.
The 271 threadlocker seemed to be a good choice, but after firing around 60 rounds, the high temperature caused it to fail. In such cases, the 
272 threadlocker (Loctite 263 vs. 272) may be a better option. However, this was not a fault of the product itself, and it performed well under normal conditions.
Easy to Use
It always been reliable, including this red variant. It is easy to use, and once applied properly, the bonded surfaces will not come apart. I have used it on various parts, such as flywheel bolts and butterfly screws in intake manifolds, and they have never loosened after application.
Strength
I appreciate the strength of this threadlocker when properly applied. It ensures that screws on my scope mount blocks remain secure without any chance of them coming loose. While it is possible to remove the screws if needed, it requires considerable effort and sometimes even heat. This is exactly what I want for critical applications where I don’t want any chance of the mount screws coming loose.
❌Cons
While the product itself is good, the packaging could be improved. It should clearly indicate that it is a liquid, as I was expecting a gel-like consistency. I accidentally dispensed more than I intended, and once it sets, it becomes challenging to remove. A redesign of the packaging, including a warning about its liquid nature, would be beneficial.
FAQ of Loctite 271
Q: Is Loctite 271 suitable for installing a gun sight, or should I consider something else?
A: It might be too heavy-duty for the task. This particular product, Loctite 271, was designed for larger threads with a 3/8+ hold. Using it on smaller threads, such as a scope mount for a gun sight, could make it extremely difficult to remove in the future due to the limited application of heat and torque. I would recommend using Loctite Blue (loctite blue vs red 
), which is specifically designed for smaller threads.
Q: Does this particular product require the use of a primer? The fourth image on Amazon seems to suggest so, but the instructions don’t mention it. I’m working with stainless steel and aluminum.
A: In my experience, I didn’t need to use a primer with Loctite 271. I used it on steel threads without even cleaning them. Once applied, the product hardened within minutes. Just to be safe, I waited 24 hours before using the assembled parts. It’s an excellent product that I’ve been using in the automobile repair industry for over 30 years.
Q: I have a problem with a locking nut on my sink faucet that keeps coming loose and causing the faucet to wobble. Would Loctite 271 be suitable for securing it?
A: Oh, no! I wouldn’t recommend using Loctite 271 for your faucet. It is intended for applications involving extreme vibration or situations where a loose bolt or nut could be extremely dangerous. For your faucet, the
blue Loctite 242 (loctite blue 242 vs 243) should be sufficient. If you were to use the red Loctite, you would need significant heat and force to remove the nut in the future, which could cause damage if you need to replace the faucet.
Q: If Loctite 271 is opened and used, how long will it remain fresh and usable?
A: The shelf life of unopened Loctite 271 is two years from the date of manufacture. Once opened, the product remains stable due to its exposure to oxygen. It is packaged in a “breathable” plastic bottle, so there is no change in shelf life once it has been opened.
Q: Can I remove my lug nuts after using Loctite 271?
A: Loctite 271 is not as permanent as you might expect. I have successfully removed lug nuts with Loctite 271 applied, and I didn’t need to apply heat or excessive force. However, it does provide a strong bond between threaded metal parts.
Q: Would Loctite 271 be suitable for securing a muzzle brake on a rifle?
A: I would recommend using Loctite 271 before assembling the muzzle brake. It can provide additional security and stability.
Q: Can I use Loctite 271 for securing a Traxxas Slash 4×4 high pinion gear?
A: I have been using Loctite 271 for over 10 years on various applications, and I believe it would work well for you. I have used it on bolts to attach ring gears, and I think it would be very effective in your case. Thank you for your question.
Q: Is Loctite 271 effective for securing screws on the inside of a self-cleaning oven door that keep coming loose?
A: I would advise against using Loctite 271 due to the high heat generated during the self-cleaning process. Loctite 271 requires a temperature of 475 degrees Fahrenheit to release, which is per design. The oven can reach temperatures higher than that during the preheat or auto clean cycles. As long as the oven never exceeds 475 degrees, the product should hold tight. Personally, I love using this stuff.
Q: Can I use Loctite 271 on wood cabinets?
A: I doubt that Loctite 271 would work on wood or porous materials. Instead, I would recommend using wood glue (See best adhesive to attach wood to mirror). Apply the glue and screw in the bolt once it has almost hardened.
Q: Will Loctite 271 work for spark plug inserts? I need something that can withstand high heat but don’t want to spend $50 on the 2640.
A: Based on my experience, Loctite 271 requires heating bonded bolts up to 482 degrees Fahrenheit to separate them. While I’m unsure of the average temperature for spark plugs in an engine, I used Loctite 271 in a cold application.
Q: Has anyone used Loctite 271 on their guns? I need something to secure the barrel to my upper receiver and I’m wondering if this or the blue variant is sufficient.
A: I used the bluevariant of Loctite for securing scope mounts on firearms, and it worked well. However, for securing the barrel to the upper receiver, I recommend consulting with a gunsmith or reaching out to the manufacturer of your firearm for their recommendations on the appropriate threadlocker to use. They will have specific knowledge about the materials and specifications of your firearm and can provide the best guidance for your particular application.
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:
Which threadlocker should I use for guns, such as scope mounts?
Personally, I prefer using Red Loctite 262 on my scope mounts and iron sights. I have been using it for many years and have never been disappointed.