Newbie question about gearcase screw gaskets...

[pcrussell50]

... OK so I've been boating since 2008 so I'm probably beginning to burn up my newbie excuses...

Didn't put this in the tech section because it's probably too basic.

I hear from time to time that you/we should use a new drain screw gasket when we replace our gearcase oil.

Just want to make sure I understand why. Is it because they are made of a kind of material like an automotive paper gasket, where once they have been compressed, they don't spring back and will not seal as well if re used?

Mid-80's Yamaha 40, if it matters

-Peter

[hydrochicken]

If you have them, replace them. I have reused before but was out of new ones.

[rgsauger]

Yes. Your supposition is correct. They are paper and tear up half the time when removed.

[WaterZebra]

Most screws use o-rings these days. Regardless of material (gasket paper or cork) it's best to replace them. O-rings have a nasty habit of getting surface cracks you can't see when wet with oil.