Oil Change: does my oil filter rubber seal need replacing?

[Smurfbud]

Anyone who does an oil change and fails to renew the sump nut washer is asking for trouble, and to suggest just tighten the bolt a tad more should not be doing there own servicing.

Why not? I service all of my bikes - never ever in 35+ yrs had any problem with any work I have done on any bike. Why? because 99% of the time I do things properly, like replacing crush washers on oil sump bolts etc etc however, on the very odd occasion when I havent had a washer available, I have re-used the previous one and had a satisfactory seal.

I said it wasnt essential, and it isnt - that doesnt mean I dont do it nor am I suggesting that you shouldnt use one.