Interesting experience, but I'm curious—do you think double-checking alignment alone is enough? I mean, cross-threading is tricky because sometimes the threads feel aligned even when they're slightly off. I've found that visually inspecting the threads closely and gently turning the fitting backward first until it clicks into place can help avoid cross-threading altogether. Have you tried that method?
Also, about tightening: while I agree Hulk-strength isn't ideal, I've noticed that relying solely on "snugness" can sometimes lead to leaks down the road, especially with plastic fittings. Maybe using a torque wrench or at least a consistent tightening tool could strike a better balance between too loose and overtightening? Just wondering if anyone else has experimented with specific tools or techniques to find that sweet spot between snug and secure...
"Maybe using a torque wrench or at least a consistent tightening tool could strike a better balance between too loose and overtightening?"
Torque wrench seems a bit overkill for plastic fittings imo...I've always just wrapped threads with plumber's tape and tightened by hand, then maybe a quarter-turn with pliers. Haven't had leaks yet, knock on wood.
Torque wrench seems a bit overkill for plastic fittings imo...I've always just wrapped threads with plumber's tape and tightened by hand, then maybe a quarter-turn with pliers.
Torque wrench does sound like overkill, but pliers on plastic fittings make me cringe a bit...I've cracked one before doing that. Hand-tightening firmly with tape usually does the trick without risking damage.
Yeah, torque wrench definitely feels excessive...but are pliers really necessary? I've cracked fittings too easily before. Isn't firm hand-tightening with plumber's tape usually enough to seal it properly without risking damage? Curious what others' experiences have been.
"Isn't firm hand-tightening with plumber's tape usually enough to seal it properly without risking damage?"
Usually yeah, but honestly, it depends on the fitting and material you're working with. I've seen hand-tightened connections leak slowly over time, especially if it's metal-on-metal. Personally, I prefer using an adjustable wrench with a cloth wrapped around the fitting—just snug it up gently after hand-tightening. Less chance of cracking anything, and it gives me peace of mind. Learned that trick after a few annoying callbacks on jobs where hand-tight wasn't quite enough...
