Threadlockers and superglue

Michael Koblic · 2008-05-19T21:06:09+00:00

I have never used threadlockers before (but I have only recently discovered the benefits of internal combustion engine, so forgive me!).I spent some considerable time on the various web-sites and got only limited answers to my questions. Here they are, I would be grateful for any advice:1) How does a $14-threadlocker differ from a $2 Superglue? I gather the threadlockers are anaerobic. Does that mean that superglue is aerobic?2) How long does it take for a threadlocker (say Loctite 242) to cure?3) The purple, blue and red are different strengths. I just could not get a picture of *how much* they differ. I gather you need heat to loosen up the red, but what about the others?4) Why the different thread size recommendation?5) Where does the "Green" threadlocker fit in strength-wise? I understand you put it on a fastener already in place, but what kind of result can be expected?I just did an experiment: Put a 1/2" nut half-way on a bolt and then dribbled some cheap superglue into the cavity. It took its sweet time curing (as observed by the behaviour of the small droplet in the middle of the cavity), but then I had to grip the bolt in a pipe-vise (ordinary vise would not do) and managed to get the nut off with a 3/4" spanner. On inspection, only about 3 threads were engaged and there was still residue of uncured glue on them.Thanks for help,