Just to add a little balance to the discussion...Pipe Joint Compound (aka pipe
dope) which I purchased yesterday is (according to the label) "non-hardening,
will not crack, crumble or shrink, is a safe non-toxic formula containing no
lead or other hazardous ingredients."

I also bought a roll of Gas Seal Pipe Joint Tape (nice, mellow yellow colour).
The tape was about $1.50 more expensive than the pipe dope.

Which works better? I don't know yet but a certified pipe fitter told me he
prefers pipe
dope because, in his opinion, it makes a better seal.

The gas seal tape proponents are equal in number, I'm sure. Make up your own
mind.

Roy Olynick
'87 Westfalia GL
(till death do us part)
'91 Honda Civic SE
'01 Honda Civic LX