Is it critical to change the orings on the drain plugs for the oil and transmission or can I get by without doing so?

EDIT (45 replies later)
Ya know, it's funny - I posted this on a Sunday while I was itching to change out the fluid - but, I only had the fluid and oil filter and not any o-rings and of course the HD shop is closed and I wouldn't be able to get there or anywhere else for a few days - so, I thought "why not ask if it's critical to change them out" and WOW! Look at all the replies!

Didn't change fluids - in case I find that the old ones are bad, I will wait until I GET THE O-RINGS! Even though plenty of folks don't do it every time, as many have said...it's only pennies for added insurance!
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I'll change them if they're in bad shape, but normally I wrap the threads with teflon tape. Never had a leak yet.

 

I don't, I know the manual say to. But if they aren't jacked up and look ok, re-use them. I've re-used mine 2-3 times. Just make sure and check for a seap.

 

What does common sense tell you?

Please let us know...

 

Cost of o'ring = pennies
Cost of aggrevation = whatever you value your personal time at
Cost of replacement oil = depends on what you are using, say $20 min

I don't see why it is worth taking the risk

If I were stuck on the side of the road, yes I would re-use it and would not have a lot of concerns

If I were planning the job in advance and had time to get the bits hassle free, that would be a no brainer

 

Havent replaced one yet and im pretty sure I have a bunch in my o-ring kit.. If it aint broke then dont fix it

 

+1, don't tempt fate. Worked on jets and helicopters for years. Its recommended for a reason. Unless of course your eyes go microscopic and see any little cracks or tears.

 

I re-use mine if there is no visible cracks or tears. You don't need a microscope to see a defect bad enough to cause a leak. I also wipe a little PTFE pipe compound aroud the plug and have never had any trouble. I keep some extra O-rings around so if one is found to be bad when doing a fluid change I don't have to make a special trip to get one.

 

Examine the old one visually and if OK I use one again for a total of two times. Then it is a new one

 

i send mine in to NASA for inspection and wait until they give me the go or no.