Should all new copper washers be annealed before use?

Is it common practice to anneal all copper washers before use, no matter where they're used? Is it only for the heavier guage?

Thanks

NightShadow91 said:

Is it common practice to anneal all copper washers before use, no matter where they're used? Is it only for the heavier guage?

Thanks

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no

Copper washers should already be soft annealed when freshly bought.

These soft copper washers then work harden the moment they are fitted.
This is why they are replaced, every time they are removed. However if you're desperate and can't get a replacement, it is possible to anneal the old one again, as long as it's kept in mind, that it could be cracked. I've reused copper washers many times on things like injectors, but I'd never reuse them on brake components, simply because it's not safe to do so.

Nodge68 said:

I'd never reuse them on brake components, simply because it's not safe to do so.

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surely a connection will either leak, or not? I can't see it would fail over time

kermit_rr said:

surely a connection will either leak, or not? I can't see it would fail over time

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Copper washers are used in banjo brake fittings, and these can crack and displace rapidly under high braking pressure. So it's best to always replace copper banjo sealing washer.

Nodge68 said:

Copper washers are used in banjo brake fittings, and these can crack and displace rapidly under high braking pressure. So it's best to always replace copper banjo sealing washer.

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Thems the ones I always reanneal.

Annealing them wont hurt, I always do it with new injector washers, not all parts are created equal.
Banjo unions often have a concertina type washers on them and they can re seal but it's much better to replace them, flat ones will be work hardened.

Tbh I have reused old copper washers unannealled many time with no issues, not out of choice I should add, it was needs must so it got done.

I have never replaced my sump plug copper washer, I just anneal it every time as I ALWAYS forget to buy a new one until I realise when draining the oil

flat said:

I have never replaced my sump plug copper washer, I just anneal it every time as I ALWAYS forget to buy a new one until I realise when draining the oil

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Like any diligent owner I have plenty of spares for such occasions.

Can never find them though, and the blowlamp is bright yellow.

boguing said:

Like any diligent owner I have plenty of spares for such occasions.

Can never find them though, and the blowlamp is bright yellow.

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Rothenburg? The click start on mine is broken

but yes, it’s yellow and easy to find lol