if so, what sealant is recommended?

Jim, pipe dope (except for teflon tape) is nothing more than a lubricant which allows the tapered thread to perform it's original function. Pipe threads are tapered at the rate of 1" per 12' and will seal of their own accord when drawn in. Typically there will be 2-3 threads left showing when properly tightened. Dope the male threads ONLY.

Yes. Ever put a 1/4npt on a air tool without tape? Leaks every time. I like locktite PST myself, but rector seal also works well.

Yes! For the love of dog use sealant! Autozone,etc will have fuel safe sealants. I use the non hardening stuff when I have to use npt w/ fuel. (though i generally avoid it like the plague.)

EZ-turn fuel lube:

http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/cspages/ezturnlube.php

5 oz tube lasts almost forever . . . .

Hope this helps!

Steve A-

When I used to build pneumatics control systems, you could buy all of the fittings with pre-coated (teflon) threads.

Like this:



It was a lot less mess and a lot less hassle.
I wish they did that to all pipe thread fittings these days.

Stu

Be careful with teflon thread tape on connections to electric fuel and water pumps. I talked to an engineer at Dedenbear racing several years ago and he said a big reason for pump/motor failure was teflon tape coming loose and getting pulled around impellers or other parts and jamming them up. In fact the warranty was voided if they found teflon tape inside.