How to remove crush washers?

Chilly Willy · October 30, 2006, 09:18:34 PM

Everything that I've read about removing the crush washer from the oil drain plug suggests using a razor to pry it up. I tried that (as did one of the "How To" posters--with equal results) and the darned thing feels like it's welded to the plug. I can't even get the blade in there to grab a leverage point.

Any advice?

Chilly

coll0412 · October 30, 2006, 10:24:40 PM

Leave it and just use a new washer on top of it, thats what I did when I couldn't get it off there. I mean if it is stuck on there that hard how is anything ever going to leak by it

FearedGS500 · October 30, 2006, 10:28:59 PM

i got mine off .. find you a small but strong pick . or use an old knife blade thats what i did . after you work it up .. then i got a small screw driver and worked it up like that .. but make sure you dont get your treads .. that could make for a bad day

WildBlue · October 31, 2006, 01:24:38 AM

Yeah, just leave it there. I just put a new one on top and 3500 miles later I've had no leaks.

sledge · October 31, 2006, 02:56:33 AM

Nip away at it with a small pair of wire cutters.

rob1bike · October 31, 2006, 04:59:58 AM

Clamp it in a vise, just the head.take a sharp knife or small screwdriver and tap it with quick blows from a hammer. Don't damage the threads. When it starts to bend or move either work each side prying it up or cut it witg a angled nipper.
Or mail it to me and I'll do it.
Don't think leaving it on is a good idea, do you want like 5 old washers on?

GSRider · October 31, 2006, 05:02:09 AM

Don't double gasket your plugs. You are just asking for trouble.

If the gasket seems like it's welded to the plug, get a new plug and gasket. For what it costs, why not?!?!?

mp183 · October 31, 2006, 05:49:09 AM

I have been using the same plug and washer for 23,000 miles.
No leaks. Same thing on the V-Strom over 30,000 miles.
I never had a bike where I changed it.

rob1bike · October 31, 2006, 10:19:56 AM

Quote from: GSRider on October 31, 2006, 05:02:09 AM
Don't double gasket your plugs. You are just asking for trouble.

If the gasket seems like it's welded to the plug, get a new plug and gasket. For what it costs, why not?!?!?

+1 its just a bolt

That seals ALL the engines oil. Buy a new one.

Trwhouse · October 31, 2006, 12:28:59 PM

Hey there Willy et al,
This is so easy.
Please don't double up the gasket, you are definitely looking for trouble later.
Always remove the old crush washer -- by taking a Channel-Loc pliers or a Vice-Grips and using it to gently hold the crush washer by its OUTSIDE edge, then use a 17MM wrench or socket to unscrew the bolt from the old washer. Just hold it in front of you or over a workbench, and it will easily unthread.
Don't look for shortcuts when doing it right the first time is so easy.
Best wishes,
Todd

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How to remove crush washers?