Loctite 271 vs 272: Which One Should You Use?

Loctite-271-vs-Loctite-272

If you’re into automobile servicing, then you need Loctite! However, when deciding which Loctite threadlocker to buy, there are many options on the market. Loctite 271 vs. 272 is one of those questions that has been asked for quite some time and has left people with more questions than answers. To help clear any confusion or doubts about Loctite 271 vs. 272, this blog post will compare them in-depth and give a detailed answer to which Loctite is best suited for what situation.

What Is Threadlocker?

Threadlocker is a compound that you can use to lock the threads on two objects so they will not come apart. There are two types of threadlockers, anaerobic and non-anaerobic. Non-anaerobic thread lockers work well in air or oxygen-rich environments. Still, they tend to corrode metal fasteners when used for a long time outside of their ideal environment. In contrast, anaerobic threadlockers don’t corrode metal fasteners when used for a long time outside of their perfect setting.

What is Loctite 271?

Loctite-Threadlocker-Red-271

Loctite 271 is a threadlocker that is recommended for heavy-duty applications. It’s specifically formulated to seal, lock and protect threaded fasteners in high-vibration environments such as automotive and industrial machinery manufacturing. The Loctite 271 formula contains a thickening agent to maximize its stringency once it cures, allowing Loctite 271 to be used in looser and more worn threads than Loctite 272.

Is Loctite 271 permanent?

Loctite Threadlocker Red 271 is designed to seal and lock threaded fasteners on a permanent basis. Curing only in the absence of air can be used only where there are tight-fitting metal surfaces.

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Pros:

1. Loctite 271 is not harmful to electronic equipment, so it can be used on any of your devices without worrying about rusting or shorting out the circuit.

2. It is straightforward to apply Loctite 271 because the Loctite 271 gel provides a natural mechanism for you to spread Loctite 271 over the threaded connections and other areas that need to be bonded together.

3. Loctite 271 has a shelf life of 2 years, which means you can use Loctite 271 up to 8 times before it expires! Great for those who want to stock up before they finally get the chance!

4. Loctite 271 comes in two types: Loctite 271 red Loctite and Loctite 271 blue Loctite. Loctite 271 blue is a higher strength than Loctite 271 red, so you can choose which one to use based on the material or situation that needs it.

Cons:

Loctite is not as strong as other adhesives like epoxy and super glue.

What is Loctite 272 ?

Loctite-88442-Red-272

Loctite 272 is a high-performance metal locking compound. This thread locker is typically used on nuts, bolts, and fittings. Loctite 272 has an excellent mechanical strength which means the Loctite will not break down in vibration or shock.

Pros:

-Provides a perfect seal

-Prevents loosening of fittings or bolts

-Non-staining

-No offensive odor

-Leaves no residue on external surfaces

Cons:

-Can be very messy if used for smaller sizes

-Hard to find Loctite 272 in stores

Loctite 271 vs. 272: Aerobic Or Anaerobic Threadlockers?

Anaerobic loctites are the best choice if you need to use a thread locker in an oxygen-rich environment or any work conducted in the open air. In contrast, loctites that are non-anaerobic are best for use in environments with little or no air or oxygen.

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How do Loctite 271 and Loctite 272 differ from each other

There are four main differences to note between Loctite 271 and Loctite 272.

Loctite 272 is a clear Loctite applied to the threads of metal fasteners, as opposed to Loctite 271, a purple Loctite used in applications such as assembling threaded fittings.

Loctite 272 contains no volatile organic compound (VOC) and lower vapor pressure than Loctite 271. It also provides higher strength and resistance to thermal cycling, while Loctite 271 offers better corrosion resistance.

Another difference is that Loctite 271 requires a 24-hour cure time before the Loctite has fully dried, whereas Loctite 272 can be used immediately.

The final major difference between loctites 271 and 272 is their color: Loctite 271 is purple while Loctite 272 is clear or white.

Which Loctite should you use for what situation

Many people have been asking which Loctite they should choose, and the answer to this question depends on what you are using the Loctite for. If you need Loctite to work in an oxygen-rich environment, then choose Loctite 271 as it is non-anaerobic and works well with metal fasteners. Alongside this, if you’re working in a closed space without any air or oxygen, then choose Loctite 272 because it is anaerobic and will work well with Loctite 271.

You should use Loctite 271 if you need to seal threaded fittings that are already fitted together, and the level of thread locking required is low. If you need to assemble two loose components with threads, but there’s no requirement for corrosion resistance, Loctite 271 will work.

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You should use Loctite 272 if you need to assemble threaded fittings that are already fitted together, and the level of thread locking required is medium or high. If there’s some corrosion resistance required, like on an oil rig application, Loctite 272 would be perfect for this purpose. Or, when you need to assemble two components with threads but no Loctite has been applied, Loctite 272 would work.

The most important thing you need to know is that both the loctites are good quality and cannot be compared in terms of performance. The decision depends entirely on your requirements for which situation it will be used – Loctite 271 or Loctite 272.

How to remove Loctite red thredlockers?

If the Loctite is still being used or it is fresh, remove it by gently heating the Loctite with a heat gun. If it has been in place for more than six hours, the Loctite will have already been set and can only be removed by application of a stronger Loctite remover.

Final verdict on which Loctite to choose and why

Loctite 272 is the best Loctite to use because it provides a perfect seal, prevents loosening of fittings or bolts, and leaves no residue on external surfaces. If you want an easy-to-find Loctite that won’t be messy when used for smaller sizes and has little odor, then choose Loctite 271.

By Jacob - The Rider

Hi, my name is Jacob. I'm the founder of Backyard Rider Mag - a blog about motorcycles. I've studied engineering in college but decided to make blogging my career because it really aligned with what I wanted to do creatively - talk about bikes! I've been riding for 16 years now- everything from sportbikes to cruisers, dirtbikes or even dual sports. And after all these years on the road, there are still new bikes that excite me just as much as when I first started riding.

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