15 replies to this topic

[AlexP]

Any tips on how to keep the sump wash perfectly central when tightening it up? I always seem to end up with an off-centre washer and an oil leak!

[adam_93rio]

cant you get a different sized washer? one that sits more tightly on the sump plug itself?
this way it wouldnt be able to go off centre when tightening up

or stick some sealant round it

[mars red mike]

I use a very thin smear of grease on the one side of the washer, just enough to hold it in place. I have been doing it like this for years and it has never leaked yet.

[mk1leg]

a spot of super glue .......this will hold it in place and once you've titghtened it up .....job done..........

[pogie]

Your leak could be because the washer has become work hardened. If you have used the same copper washer more than a coulpe if times you will find it starts to get very hard and wont seal too well. You can soften it again by annealing, just heat the washer over a gas cooker until it is red hot and then let it cool and you will find it is soft once again.

Matey boy explains the process here -

Edited by pogie, 11 April 2010 - 01:21 PM.

[AlexP]

I always use a new washer as they are cheap as chips (from shows) and I see no point in using an old one.

I need a large (the standard) washer due to the helicoil, a small washer has a bit of a problem.

I like the grease idea - think that'd what i'll try next!

[MRA]

Either the sump plug or copper washer are not the correct size

[AlexP]

hmm, I always thought that the washer was a loose fit over the plug? All the one's have a bought from Minispares and from shows are the same. This has been the case on 2 different minis too.

What washers do you use then Mr. MRA?

[MRA]

We manufacture sump plugs that work with the current copper washers available or we use a special rubber seal inserted washer which is designed to fit the 5/8" diameter of the sump plug.

The cheaper replacement sump plugs, have a massive undercut which is not good for the copper washer.

[AlexP]

Might have to pick up one of your plugs then!

Will they fit a helicoiled gearbox? I assume it will (as far as I can tell the current plug is a std 5/8" one).

[HARBER07]

I use THESE

Never had a leak yet. (not from the sump plug anyways )

[MRA]

Dowty washers are also very good

And yes sump plugs are 5/8" thread and will work with a helicoil fitted.

[taffy1967]

I use THESE

Never had a leak yet. (not from the sump plug anyways )

Great link, I used to get them from Halfords until the miserable bleeders stopped stocking them.

I believe they were classed as Ford Mondeo sump plug washers, but they also worked a treat on the Mini.

[AlexP]

I bought the 'Mondeo' washer only a week ago from halfords!

Still leaks though. I think the helicoil messes with the small diameter bonded area.

[taffy1967]

Mines been heli-coiled and it was always fine with that type of washer. In fact the garage who fitted the heli-coil recommended using them.

I've got a standard type copper washer there at the moment and I think it does leak a tiny bit.

As for Halfords, well no doubt my local branch (which is useless) were telling porkies then.