Loctite 222MS as an alternative to 222 and 221

[Gab27]

I'd like to use a bit of Loctite on the screws of my bracelet to be safe. I've read that 221 is what Rolex officially uses and that 221 and 222 are relatively interchangeable. I've also read that one wants to use a toothpick or something of the sort to apply just a tiny bit of Loctite to the female portion of the link.

However, it looks like Loctite 222MS is now an additional low strength threadlocker designed for smaller screws. I can't really tell the difference between it and 222 based on the data sheet. Is anyone using this on their Rolex bracelet and do you have any thoughts?

Additionally, when I resized my bracelet, there were the white specs and residue which I assume is the Loctite used by the factory. Before using new Loctite, what, if anything, are you doing to clean the screws? I've read somewhat conflicting accounts here.

Gracious friends!

[CFR]

Yes, I've been using 222MS and it's just fine.

I clean the white residue off just by turning the screw while applying pressure around the threads with a cloth. That's enough friction to remove the white residue in my experience. Then I check the screw under a loupe to make sure there's no remaining residue or debris before applying a dab of 222MS.

[Boaters]

Personally I think loctite is not needed. I you check you screw pins every so often you won't have an issue.

[Rocket_Man]

To back the screw out I hit it a few seconds with a lighter on the thread end and use firm pressure with the screwdriver until it comes loose. If it doesn't come loose easily I heat it again. Normally some factory thread locker comes out on the threads and some will be in the female end. I don't clean it off, I just reuse it, use firm pressure to re-set the screw and I've never had a problem with any screw backing out.

[Nikrnic]

Originally Posted by CFR

Yes, I've been using 222MS and it's just fine.

I clean the white residue off just by turning the screw while applying pressure around the threads with a cloth. That's enough friction to remove the white residue in my experience. Then I check the screw under a loupe to make sure there's no remaining residue or debris before applying a dab of 222MS.

Never heard of 222MS until now, ill pick that up. As far as cleaning the residue off the threads I use a small semi soft brass brush from a gun cleaning kit.

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[Tools]

Originally Posted by Gab27

. . .
Additionally, when I resized my bracelet, there were the white specs and residue which I assume is the Loctite used by the factory. Before using new Loctite, what, if anything, are you doing to clean the screws? I've read somewhat conflicting accounts here.

Gracious friends!

Acetone is the cleaner/solvent for loctite. Most fingernail polish remover is acetone, there may already be some of this in many homes.

222MS is the newest designation for the low strength purple.

[Gab27]

I am going to go with the 222MS after cleaning the threads a tiny bit. Thank you to everyone who replied! I really appreciate it!

[214270Explorer]

Originally Posted by Rocket_Man

To back the screw out I hit it a few seconds with a lighter on the thread end and use firm pressure with the screwdriver until it comes loose. If it doesn't come loose easily I heat it again. Normally some factory thread locker comes out on the threads and some will be in the female end. I don't clean it off, I just reuse it, use firm pressure to re-set the screw and I've never had a problem with any screw backing out.

That.

In over 33 years of bracelets, I have NEVER had one loosen up any screws after resizing. And I have NEVER added new Loctite.

To each their own, if it gives you peace of mind.