Can a copper oil drain plug washer of the proper size be safely substituted for the aluminum washer on the Acura oil pan? Any dissimilar metal reaction?

 

http://trailer-bodybuilders.com/mag/...imilar_metals/

http://www.metal-mart.com/Guides/Galvanic.htm

These may be helpful. I think it would probably take a while for any reaction (although road salt would speed the reaction up). Any reason not to stick with the stock washer?

 

Yes, I had a few copper drain plug washers left from my last car, a Saab, and being a native New Englander, I can't bear to waste anything or, God forbid, throw something useful away.
Oh, thanks for the references; they do help.

 

Well, I am not a metallurgist, but I udnerstand the physical properties. Galvanic and other ionic exchanges nbetween disimilar metals are nothing to worry about here, as the duration (T) of the contact is relatively short - I have seen "galling" of dissimilar metals in hi-voltage connector applications, but would not worry about it.

BTW, I use steel gaskets that have a rubber insert - just snug them up, and the rubber makes the seal, not relying on "brute force" crushing. They can be resued many times.

I sourced them at www.magneticdrainplugs.com - have always received stuff from them fast, and once when I goofed up and ordered the wrong part, they just sent me the right one gratis, even though it was my bad and I offered to pay.

 

Thanks JPSMAN and Road Rage for your comments. Very helpful. RR, the rubber/steel washer gasket sounds like a winner to me.