Drain plug washer debate - Brass vs. Nylon

[Zed2]

I bought the WIX oil filter at O'Rileys and they told me the nylon drain plug washer is better than a brass washer. (I always replace the washer at each oil change.)

Does anyone have any comments regarding the pros and cons of either?

Thanks,
Keith

[turtlejoe]

I would think that since you replace it at every oil change, it probably doesn't make a lick of difference. Personally, I like metal things and really dislike plastic things, especially when it comes to sealing - I earned that aversion with the plastic valve cover on my old CJ-7.

For long term use though, I would prefer the brass washer as it would be less likely to break down over time and crack like nylon can. This is personal preference, and I still have my original washer, so your mileage may vary. :D

[elanchiwaya]

there's suppose to be a drain plug washer?....

[J4GRAND]

Having been a J-Lube manager in a previous life (for a whole 10 months), I can say that more leaky drain plugs were caused by nylon or plastic drain plug gaskets than by metal or brass "crush" gaskets. Most people, including the "oil pit people", overtighten the non-metal gaskets thinking they will get a better seal. This leads to them deforming or stripping the threads out of the pan altogether. stay with a metal or crush gasket. BTW, the Felpro gasket kit I used when rebuilding my 360 had an aluminum, solid plug gasket.

[badaboom]

Zed2
I ditto all replies to your question concerning the drain plug washer.
and
elanchiwaya
Yes typically there is a drain plug washer.

[popeye44]

36,000+ oil changes in my life... metal gaskets work best. we typically had soft aluminum or brass.

Although never had too much problem with plastic other than what previous poster said.. people do overtighten. I've seen plastic washers thinner than paper from squishing em.

[steven79]

I got a metel one with a rubber insert in it and it works great, it's the only thing that does not leak lol

[Stuka]

I have seen somemetal ones with a o-ring inset to the metal. So it can be torqued way down, and the mtal will hit, but the o-ring is there to help. I have seen this on higher end cars where you just CANT have an oil leak ;)