Dowty or fibre washer

[Billington]

I’ve noticed that some people working on 1950/60s British motorcycle sometimes change fibre washer to Dowty washers to prevent leakage. Is it advisable to use this types of washer on a 1930s bike. Also when would you advise using a Dowty washer over a standard fibre washer.
Thank you for any advice.

[Rex]

Some people seem to love them, but other than the sealing arrangement for the Schrader valve on Dowty forks, I've never seen an application where a Dowty washer is appreciably better than fibre or copper washers.
Seen them on petrol taps where the petrol has degraded the rubber component, or tightening the tap has ripped it.
A 1930s bike is no different to any other age bike where seals are concerned.

[iansoady]

I use them and do think they seal better than fibre especially as most of the fibre washers sold these days are very hard. If using for petrol best to get ones with Viton seals.

[Billington]

Thank you Rex and iansoady, that was helpful. Being informed about the best products and when and where to use them helps to reduce incidence of failure when riding.

[iansoady]

True, but only if you what you read is correct.......

[R]

Are you casting nasturtiums on the written word ?!

Everything you read on the internet is true.
I read that on the internet ...