Copper crush washers

[drswift]

I recently purchased a 2004 R1150RT. In doing my first major service, I disocvered the the crush washers for the oil drain plug, gear box and rear end were copper, not the typical aluminum ones I've used in the past. I also noticed that they did not appear to be "crushed" or dented. My previous bike was an 1100RT. Is this something new on 1150's? Are copper washers better than the typical aluminum ones? If so, where do you get the copper ones?

[DrPaul]

I recently purchased a 2004 R1150RT. In doing my first major service, I disocvered the the crush washers for the oil drain plug, gear box and rear end were copper, not the typical aluminum ones I've used in the past. I also noticed that they did not appear to be "crushed" or dented. My previous bike was an 1100RT. Is this something new on 1150's? Are copper washers better than the typical aluminum ones? If so, where do you get the copper ones?Whenever I have gotten crush washers from a BMW dealer or online parts house they have been aluminum. However, the ones I see in the auto parts stores are usually copper. They are both rather soft metals and the price of copper is very high now. Does it make any difference as far as keeping your drain plugs from falling out? Good question. I'm sure others will weigh in on this very soon.

[glennhendricks]

My 740 uses copper, as did the 735, 325s and the 528. I don't think it makes a difference on the whole but isn't the engine casing aluminum on the bike?

The oil pans on the cars are steel. Maybe they're trying to avoid any electrolysis.

[GSAddict]

Switched to copper right when I got the bike (155,000 km ago). Cheaper and more durable. I have done plenty of wrenching over the years and prefer copper.
They are reusable at least 3 times but you MUST Anneal them prior to reusing.
(Heat with a propane torch until the copper discolors)
Torque as per BMW spec's.
BTW: Copper washers are available in bulk at Industrial Supplys as well as most Diesel Service shops.

[kitze2]

I believe many Manufacturers have switched to Aluminum over copper since the Aluminum washers are more forgiving to sloppy torquing. Copper washers are often (usually) thinner and harder than the equivalent aluminum. Copper cold flows much better than aluminum and can squeeze out of place if over torqued. In a world of "Professional" mechanics with dubious training and skills any extra tolerances can only help. Sacrifice a pair to science and see for yourself.
GSaddict is right...I get 'em at the local hydraulic supply house for a few cents each. As opposed to what, a buck each at BMW! At least that's what Triumph charges.