Quote Originally Posted by mas985 View Post
Silicone pool lube is the best stuff to use on the pump lid and drain plugs.

I am *not* disagreeing; when you need a lube on a pool pump, that's what you need. And, it can help stop leaks. (or even find them!, when goop-ed onto the inlet fitting to pipe fitting contact area)

But, gosh, I hate that stuff.

It's pretty much a last resort for me. I'll replace seals, O-rings, lids, fittings, etc. before I'll get that stuff out. It is the stickiest, hardest to get off goop I've ever dealt with, except maybe epoxy paint. But epoxy paint eventually dries, and that stuff never does. If a tube of that gets loose in a tool box . . . plan on HOURS of fun cleaning up.

And, when you put it on a pump O-ring, you can pretty much guarantee that every bit of dirt, sand, grit, leaves or twigs that get within 3" of the ring will be magnetically drawn to the goo, and then instantly and permanently attached. (Of course, that's more of an issue in the East, than on the West Coast or Southwest.)

Once there, it's almost impossible to get dirt off. Forget about a paper towel -- they aren't strong enough. You have to use a rag . . . which is then ruined for any further use. Especially, hand wiping.

Did I mention that I hate that stuff?