mx5cartalk.com

I'm planing on doing the front crank seal this weekend. I have a short nose crank and was wondering if I should use locktite on the key and bolt. I have a new key and bolt ready and as far as I know there is nothing wrong apart from the leaking seal. Also what number locktite should I use if everthing looks OK.
olboy

I've replaced the timing belt and seal on a 5 wth the short nose crank without using any loctite or similar products. The key (pun intended) is making sure the keyway is not damaged and you use a new key and bolt... and make sure you use a good torque wrench when tightening the bolt to the correct specs. Having said that the use of loctite 242 or 243 shouldn't hurt.

http://www.miata.net/garage/hsue/crank/loctite_1.htm

J

Loctite 609 Shaft Fit retaining compound is gives a better grip for pulleys, bearings, etc over shafts when the fit is already good.

"LOCTITE® 609 is designed for the bonding of cylindrical fitting
parts. The product cures when confined in the absence of air
between close fitting metal surfaces and prevents loosening
and leakage from shock and vibration. Typical applications
include rotor to shafts in fractional and subfractional
horsepower motors. Locks bushings and sleeves in housings
on shafts. Augments press fits."
http://tds.loctite.com/tds5/docs/609-EN.PDF