Why does Ferrari use copper washers

While changing the fluids on my 308QV I noticed that all of the washer are copper. Why did Ferrari use copper and not aluminum for their washers? I always thought aluminum washers worked better and prevented leaks. I used the OEM copper washers and now I seem to have a small leak from the gear oil.

Ken

yes. copper

Hi..........

Copper deforms more easily than aluminum or steel and provides a better seal in contact with surface imperfections.

If you have a leak, look for a surface irregularity on the bottom of the drain plug head and the surface around the drain hole. Also look for grit or sand. Replace the copper washer if it possesses any gouges.

Remove the plug and quickly insert a rubber stopper or a clean rag to prevent loss of fluid during the inspection.

Good luck !!!

Frank.......23005
www.masiarz.net/bb_resource

Thanks Frank. I always thought Al was a better metal than Co for a seal, but it looks as if I was incorrect.

Ken

Hey Ken,
You have probably already solved the problem but for future reference keep this in mind. In the aircraft industry we use copper washer on most high temp parts very regally. After a while the copper contracts, becoming smaller when fitted to a component. Some manufactures advise if a new seal is not available you may heat the copper seal/washer with ie. a blow torch. and this in turn expands the copper again, it form to it's original size. Thus creating a better seal on installation. Hope this is of some help.

Kind regards
Steve

Ahhhh, but then the question, do you quench the washer when it is hot or cool it slowly?

Someone posted that the purpose of heating previously used copper washers was to allow them "soften" or regain some ductibility so they can be crushed again...not that it expanded the metal...
http://ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3922&highlight=crush+washer

In fact, they mention you can't do this too many times as the washer will get too thin.

Copper washers generally should not be reused due to the fact that they are what is called "work-hardened" with forces that produce expansion, contraction, compression, bending, etc. They can be resoftened by the process of annealing, which consists of heating to a cherry-red color and then cooled. Shooting enthusiasts who reload their own ammunition will do this to the necks of brass cartridge cases afer several reloadings to prevent neck cracks where the brass cartridge neck holds the bullet.