I despise Teflon tape, only use it when I have to. Loctite Hyd sealant, Recto 5, Aviation Gasket Sealant (I use this frequently), even Permatex Non Hardening (don't remember the number). But with any of the mentioned sealants, all threads "MUST BE" clean and oil free. If there is any oil present, Teflon tape is about your only resort.
But I'm wondering if you might possibly have a different problem skidrowe. I'm wondering if you are using o-ring boss couplers on pipe thread hose fittings, or, pipe thread couplers on o-ring boss hose fittings? If you were to do either of these...you ain't going to get it to seal.