Oil change using aluminum or copper crush washer

[epoxy.guy]

I've done 2 oil changes on my 2005 Gs500, one with the aluminum crush washer (non Suzuki), and once with the copper crush washer.   In either case, the washers worked fine and no leaks were detected afterwards.    From my experience talking to others, the Suzuki crush washer, which looks like a grommet is more difficult to remove.  In fact, I still have one stuck on the bolt which I haven't bothered to removed since it hasn't caused any issues.

Also reading other blogs, it appears the purpose of the crush washer is not as much to prevent leaking as it is to prevent stripping of the plug.    What's your experience been with various brands of crush washers?

[gsJack]

I've always used the one that came on the bike, never had a need for a replacement.  I've owned 6 bikes ( 4 Hondas and 2 Suzukis) and put over 80k miles on 4 of them including over 80k miles on each of the last 2 which were/are the 97 and 02 GS500s.

[Deros514]

I've never had to replace a crush washer. Never had an issue with a leak at the drain plug. Now the gasket for the pan is a different story.

[epoxy.guy]

Okay, this might make for good debate, but isn't the crush washer considered useless after use and should be replaced after each oil change?   Mind you, they're only worth a few dollars at the most so isn't really that expensive part to replace.

[pandymai]

true, but the OEM crush washer tends to stick pretty well to the drain plug. and why replace something that is still working exactly as it should? it's personal preference. with those few dollars i can eat for another day. haha