and if i do, where do i get one. Just any old hardware store??? or is it a honda specific part??? thanks for the help all.

 

Yes, replace it

Just get it from honda when you pick up a filter.

 

yeah, and it's only like 30 cents anyways.

 

yes because it crushes to make a tight seal with the drain plug bolt. If you don't replace it you might not have a tight seal and end up leaking a little oil.

 

It wont kill ya if you dont replace it EVERYTIME but if it leaks then replace it

 

I flip mine upsidedown and re-use it once.

 

just don't overtighten the bolt. it's a bitch having to mess with those threads.

 

I heard if you do manage to strip the threads, get the acura legend drain bolt because it is longer and goes in farther. I would replace the washer anyways, however it does not need to be replaced every time.

 

are you serious?

 

I reuse mine once then toss it away, unless i over-tightened it.

 

the purpose of the crush washer is so that you don't over tighten the drain bolt and strip out the threads on the oil pan. They only cost .25 each.

 

Bingo..this is the correct answer (and the main reason for the crush washer). True about making a good seal as well. I have reused mine here and there once (flipping it and using the other side). I buy these in bulk (about 10 at a time) from Acura. You will also need to get them for your tranny changes, and for your engine block when you drain your radiator fluid, so prepare in advance. (Different sizes though, so check with Acura).

 

Next time you go, just buy 5 filters, and they usually tape the washer on the top of the filter for you.

-Rage (now that he thinks about it...considering hamp filters the next time he goes)

 

i buy like 10 of them , so i always have one handy

 

Actually, I'm not sure if this is quite true or not. There is a torque spec for that bolt. I think it's 33 ft/lbs.

I reuse the washer once. Just flip it around. If you're cool with your parts people, then they'll usually just give some to you. I have prolly 30 of them. Everytime I buy some parts, I just ask the guy, hey, can you throw a couple washers in for me... When I get home, there are 3-4 in the bottom of the bag.

 

You lucky bum! I've never received free washers from Acura. You would think the price of a genuine oil filter would include a washer. After all, most people buying an oil filter are going to need a washer anyway.

What do you guys do when the washer is "crushed" in such a way that it is difficult to remove it from the bolt? Are there any simple solutions to this?

I have to agree with most people here...I would rather spend the $0.25 than wonder if my drain bolt is leaking.

 

Well, if you only use it once or twice, and use a torque wrench to put the plug back in, it shouldn't be a problem.

However, if it is, I just take a small pick, and jab it inbetween the bolt and the washer, and it pops right off!

 

the honda dealer I go to for my oil filters tapes them on the oil filters if you want them or not! they come with the filter reguardless!

-Neeraj

 

If anybody every torque's there drain bolt and I am around, be prepared to get a swift kick to the nuts

 

BWHAAA HAHAHA...

I already told you what the crush washer is for. Craig is right, forget the torque. Use the washer. Can we be done with this topic, cause it's gettin beat! Now...on to more important things

 

i've never replaced mine and i dont have any problems.... of course i probably jinxed myself just now.

 

I replace mine every time... It's only a few cents and it can't hurt. When it comes to regular maintenance, there's no reason to skip it when it costs so little.

 

i owned many cars including Honda and Acura, believe it or not, and call me cheap or lazy, i never replaced a crush washer on oil change unless it was broken/damagedf, and never ever had a leak or any other trouble with oil drain plug. Just don't over/under tighten the bolt, check for oil leaks after changing the oil and you're golden. Of course everyone will object to this, so do as they say not as i do. 😉