Buying sump nut washers

Markbon · 26 Mar 2021

Hello, Does anyone know where you can get a variety of washers for the sump?
Last time I changed the oil I had to leave the old one on as the ones I bought were the wrong size. I dont need thousands but I better get plenty to cover all the bases,
Thanks

Burnerman · 26 Mar 2021

Traditional over -the counter- motor factors have a reasonable choice.....or the main dealers, of course.
John

Peter.N. · 26 Mar 2021

I bought a quantity on Ebay a number of years ago, they are much cheaper in quantity.

Peter

DIYspanner · 26 Mar 2021

Will these do? ...... from China but so are most parts these days.

Some cars use a dowty seal. Basically a rubber rim on the inside of a metal disc. Used mainly in hydraulic systems.

ReganAndCarter · 26 Mar 2021

People always say to change the copper washer every oil change. I've had the same washer on for about 5 changes now. Suppose I should stop pushing my luck and change it next time seeing as I've actually bought some of the correct compression type washers from Ebay -

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Copper-Compression-Sump-Washer-14mm-x-20mm-x-2mm-Pack-of-10/171212235489?ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

The gearbox oil washer was just a plain copper washer. When I changed gearbox oil I annealed the washer by getting it cherry red with a torch and quenching it in some water. That gets a second use out of an old washer if you've got a gas torch handy.

Peter.N. · 26 Mar 2021

Me too, although I have a stock of them. The general problem is the bolt is done up to tight and crushes the washer, if you tighten them sensibly they will last.

Peter

Munroast · 26 Mar 2021

I just anneal them and re use, takes a few seconds if you have a blow lamp. As far as I understand the copper is back to its original state. My can is 12 year old so I would imagine the sump washer haw been through the process a dozen times.

Peter.N. · 26 Mar 2021

Hadn't thought of that!

Peter

DIYspanner · 26 Mar 2021

I once put the sump plug back in without the washer when I wasn't paying attention. I found the washer when I drained the oil into a drum.

I doused a rag in petrol, cleaned around the sump plug then applied some silicone to seal it till the next change. No leaks ensued.

Recently did x2 Bora services and sump plug/washer were included in the filter sets.

Markbon · 26 Mar 2021

Thanks. thats got me sorted.

Munroast · 26 Mar 2021

I would check with your vehicles manufacturer that annealing and re-using washers is safe for your vehicle - do take some expert advice rather than just believing my tight fisted nonsense - LOL

ReganAndCarter · 26 Mar 2021

Does anyone know how many times copper can be annealed?

mointainwalker · 27 Mar 2021

Munroist said:
I would check with your vehicles manufacturer that annealing and re-using washers is safe for your vehicle - do take some expert advice rather than just believing my tight fisted nonsense - LOL

The sole purpose of this washer is to prevent leaks. If you can see and check that it's not leaking, why would you need any other opinion on things ?

Burnerman · 27 Mar 2021

The original PSA washer was a hollow circular design that was designed to crush, and if it was used again it was best to use a sealant.
Now its a plain copper washer which can be reused until it distorts around the hole in the middle.....annealed if preferred.
The VAG uses an aluminium washer, integral to the plug, Fords often use the O ring inserted type. For me, a smear of blue Hylomar on all of them keeps me happy.
John

Burnerman · 28 Mar 2021

ReganAndCarter said:
Does anyone know how many times copper can be annealed?

Copper 'work hardens' very quickly, especially when it is hammered - it can be annealed as many times as needed. Basically the metal is heated up to red heat (pretty difficult to see as it's red anyway) and then quenched into cold water. A small amount of grey copper oxide is produced too which floats off.
Of course, after every working the copper tends to thin and spread in its soft state, and it's this that determines replacement, sump plug wise.
John

Buying sump nut washers

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