Last year when I finished the rebuild of my MK2 Escort I had a problem with the Dellorto Banjo Bolts, twin 45's. I used the Goodridge style bolts to match the braided line and other hose fittings. The actual fittings I used were from Torques. They supply them without the required washers. Not a problem because I had access to a copper washer kit which had the right sizes in it, or so I thought. The problem was they were not thick enough and the bolt bottomed out in the carbs before compressing the washers. Had a word with Torques and they supplied some, however same problem with theirs just not thick enough.
After some measuring I bought thicker copper washers and although they compressed I just couldn't get a reliable seal and they still leaked. Tried Goodridge alloy washers and same result just couldn't get a reliable seal. All surfaces were checked for flatness, cleaned etc.
Last resort bought some fuel rated fibre washers which sealed at first attempt. Now we move onto this year.
Ran the engine a few months ago, no problems. On Sunday switched ignition on, then the fuel pump and waited for the pump to come up to pressure and quieten down, except it didn't, it kept running and the smell of petrol got stronger as it pumped out all over the floor, stunk the house out and got shouted at by the wife! The problem was the washers had dried out and shrunk, the banjo bolts were that loose I could turn them by hand.
What is the secret to getting copper washers to seal, is there a sealer I could use on them? I'm out of ideas because I've never had this problem with copper washers before.
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