Sorry I meant the hose connection on bottom of filter. Hose from tank to filter. I will try to get a photo posted later. The elbow connection looks like something with a yellow sealant may have been used from factory.
Don't know but only 31 hours on boat. One service after about 5 or 6 hours by dealer. Boat is 2008 Larson 18 ft. Bow rider. Boat has about 4 or 5 short outings.
i use a little teflon paste on NPT threads, only as a lubricant during assembly. The tapered thread is what does the sealing. Any thread sealant or teflon tape will squeeze out. I use a little oil on flare fittings.