Hmmm, interesting thoughts. The washer was replaced last year by the mechanic that did the tune, no mechanic touched the brakes after I lost the washer. None of the washers looked damaged when I took them apart. I seem to remember the washers were a combination of materials, plastic & maybe aluminum. I will check the receipt but I'm thinking the whole set of washers were replaced.

My partner even complains and hates it when I have to take the wheel off/on because the wheel looks centered then I start riding and bingo the brake rubs. The we have to stop and play with it until we can get the wheel turning. He also thinks I should contact the owner of the shop as I've had this problem since the bike was new.

It's odd that 6 different people (shops) over the years haven't been able to find a solution.

As for replacing the fork the shop was trying to find the cheapest alternative by replacing brakes and wheel just on the front. That way the brake won't be touching the rim. I'm the one who suggested doing front and back.