LOCTITE 268

Loctite 268

Loctite 268 is a high-strength, waxy, semi-solid anaerobic threadlocker conveniently packaged in a self-twisting stick. Like other liquid anaerobic products, it cures between two closely fitting metal surfaces in the absence of air and can be used on a variety of metal surfaces. It is particularly suitable for applications where liquid products may be too fluid to remain on the part. This product is easy to store and can be applied directly to threaded parts during use to ensure complete coverage.

Strength: High strength
Temperature range: 150°C
Maximum bolt size: M50
Packaging: 19g
Color: Red
Viscosity (cP) at 20 rpm: semisolid
Breakaway torque/average dismantling torque, M10 steel nuts and bolts (N.m, lb.in): 10/40 N.m ; 30/355 lb.in
Temperature range: -55°C to 150°C (-65°F to 300°F)
Fixture time (min): 5

Overview

Loctite 268 is a high-strength, red, semi-solid anaerobic threadlocker supplied as a convenient solid stick instead of a liquid. It’s designed for permanent locking and sealing of threaded metal fasteners, especially in maintenance and field service where clean, precise application matters.

Once confined between metal threads and deprived of air, Loctite 268 cures to a tough thermoset plastic that:

  • Resists loosening from shock, impact and continuous vibration

  • Seals the thread helix to help prevent fluid and gas leaks

  • Protects engaged threads against rust, fretting and corrosion

The stick format makes it easy to carry in a pocket or toolbox and apply exactly where needed, with no dripping or over-application on nearby parts.

Why choose Loctite 268?

1) Permanent-strength retention for critical fasteners
Loctite 268 provides high-strength, red-grade performance comparable to liquid permanent threadlockers. It’s intended for joints that are not meant to come apart in normal service, or where removal will require heat and significant torque.

2) Clean, no-mess solid stick
Unlike liquids that can run or drip, Loctite 268’s wax-like, semi-solid format stays put on the threads. That’s ideal for vertical, overhead or confined fasteners and for technicians working inside finished equipment, vehicles or clean environments.

3) Perfect for maintenance and field repair
The solid stick is drop-resistant and portable. It won’t leak in a toolbox or service bag, and you don’t need a separate dispenser or bottle. That makes 268 an excellent choice for MRO technicians, field service engineers and mobile repair teams.

4) Locks and seals in one simple step
By filling the engagement between male and female threads, Loctite 268 both locks the fastener against loosening and seals the path against leakage and corrosion. In many designs, it lets you reduce or eliminate mechanical locking hardware like spring washers.

5) Easy to apply exactly where needed
The stick can be rubbed directly onto male or female threads, giving good control over how much product you apply. You can treat just the first few threads, or the full engagement length, depending on the application.

Typical Applications

Heavy-duty industrial and automotive fasteners

  • Bolts and studs on motors, pumps, gearboxes and compressors

  • Fasteners in engines, drivetrains and suspensions where vibration is severe

  • Critical joints in construction equipment, trucks, rail and off-road machinery

Maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO)

  • On-site repairs where a clean, portable threadlocker is needed

  • Work in overhead, vertical or inverted positions where liquids are messy

  • Fasteners inside finished assemblies, panels and enclosures

General permanent threadlocking

  • Metal fasteners where maximum resistance to loosening is required

  • Applications where you want the benefits of a high-strength red threadlocker but prefer the control and cleanliness of a stick

Loctite 268 is formulated for metal-to-metal threads and is not recommended for plastics or for oxygen-rich / strong oxidizing environments.

How to Use Loctite 268

Step 1 – Surface preparation

  • Remove loose rust, dirt and old threadlocker from threads.

  • Wipe off heavy grease, thick oil and anti-seize.

  • Light “as-received” oil films may be tolerated, but clean metal surfaces give higher and more consistent strength.

Step 2 – Apply the stick

  • Twist the tube to expose a small portion of the Loctite 268 stick.

  • Rub the stick directly onto the male threads (or into the female threads) over the area that will be engaged.

  • Rotate the fastener as you apply to coat the threads evenly. Avoid over-applying; a thin, uniform film is enough for most joints.

Step 3 – Assemble and tighten

  • Assemble the joint and tighten the fastener to the specified torque.

  • Avoid repeatedly backing off and re-tightening once the product has started to transfer and begin curing.

Step 4 – Cure and return to service

  • Loctite 268 will begin to cure once confined in the thread engagement.

  • Allow time to reach handling strength before moving the assembly. For maximum performance, allow up to 24 hours at room temperature before subjecting the joint to full load, vibration or peak temperature.

Step 5 – Disassembly (if ever required)

  • As a high-strength, permanent threadlocker, disassembly often requires:

    • Localized heating of the fastener area (only if compatible with your base materials and design) to soften the cured adhesive, and

    • High torque with appropriate tools to loosen the fastener while still hot.

Safety & Handling

As with other high-strength anaerobic threadlockers, typical safety considerations for Loctite 268 include:

  • May cause skin and eye irritation on contact

  • Prolonged or repeated contact can lead to skin sensitization in some individuals

  • Vapours from freshly applied product in confined spaces may cause mild respiratory irritation

  • Uncured product may be harmful to aquatic life if released uncontrollably

Basic precautions:

  • Use in well-ventilated areas.

  • Avoid contact with skin and eyes; wear safety glasses and suitable protective gloves.

  • Wash hands thoroughly after use and before eating or drinking.

  • Do not dispose of uncured product into drains or natural waterways.

  • Store the stick in its original, tightly closed tube, in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight.

Always consult the latest Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for Loctite 268 in your region.

FAQs

Q1: How is Loctite 268 different from liquid red threadlockers like 271 or 262?
Loctite 268 delivers similar high-strength performance, but in a solid stick format. Liquids can drip or run on vertical or overhead bolts, while 268 stays where you put it and is much easier to use in tight spaces, on site or from a toolbox.

Q2: When should I choose Loctite 268 instead of medium-strength blue products (e.g., 243 or 246)?
Choose Loctite 268 when you want permanent locking and are comfortable that removal, if needed, will require heat and higher torque. Use medium-strength blue grades when you expect routine disassembly with standard hand tools.

Q3: Can Loctite 268 be used on stainless steel and plated fasteners?
Yes. Loctite 268 is designed for common metal substrates, including carbon steel, stainless steel and many plated fasteners. Cure may be slower on passive metals; allow extra time before applying full load or consult Henkel’s guidance if you need very rapid strength build-up.

Q4: Is Loctite 268 oil-tolerant?
Loctite 268 can handle light oil residues, but heavy films of oil, grease or anti-seize will reduce performance and slow curing. For best results, clean away heavy contamination so that the product can contact bare metal as much as possible.

Q5: Can I use Loctite 268 on plastic threads or mixed metal/plastic joints?
No. Like other anaerobic threadlockers, Loctite 268 is formulated for metal-to-metal threads and may cause stress cracking in some plastics. It also will not cure properly on non-metallic surfaces. For plastic or mixed joints, use a plastic-compatible adhesive.

Q6: Does Loctite 268 also seal against leaks?
Yes. By filling the gap between male and female threads, Loctite 268 locks and seals in one step, helping to prevent leakage of fluids and gases through the thread path and protecting threads from corrosion. It does not replace flange or face gaskets, but it is very effective at sealing through-thread leak paths.

Q7: Is Loctite 268 suitable for very small screws?
Loctite 268 will bond small screws, but because it is a high-strength grade, breakaway torque may be too high for tiny fasteners or soft alloys. For small or delicate screws, a low-strength purple threadlocker (e.g., 222 / 222MS) is usually a better choice.

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