Dipstick question <let the jokes begin>
 

So, my '61 has a 1985 350 in it now.

When looking for oil level dipsticks for this, it seems it does matter what year it is.

I really just want a plain old stick to check my oil level correctly. Simple enough one might think, but it seems elusive at the auto parts stores (they do sell the dress up version but it's for something like 62-77 SBC)

Is it the dealer, the wreckers or ebay only?

Anyone have one they want to part with?

Sincerely,
the dipstick looking for a dipstick

Re: Dipstick question <let the jokes begin>
 

Maybe buy one that fits that is long enough and calibrate it with your own markings after a fresh oil change? Have you checked with a dealer?

Re: Dipstick question <let the jokes begin>
 

yeah. the stealership is the next stop for me. It might be stupid cheap and just be the plain one I want.

Re: Dipstick question <let the jokes begin>
 

A stock dipstick and or tube is going to be either a wrecking yard or dealer item.

Re: Dipstick question <let the jokes begin>
 

I’m pretty sure I bought my stick and tube at the Chevy dealership. I was just a generic chrome aftermarket type. The tube length might make a difference depending on which side of the engine it fits, whether you have a deluxe heater or large power brake booster. My engine is one of the Chevy replacement Targetmaster versions with dipstick outlets on both sides of the block, so I installed mine on the passenger side.

IMHO if you have a choice, avoid the chrome dipsticks. It makes it much harder to read the oil level than a plain production stainless steel version.

Re: Dipstick question <let the jokes begin>
 

thanks for the feedback.

Calling the dealership today to see what they have.

Re: Dipstick question <let the jokes begin>
 

$17 at the dealership. Going to pick it up later today.

Re: Dipstick question <let the jokes begin>
 

Well, the dealer had it in stock. $17. Not bad.

Got it back to the truck and it seems the PO chopped half of the dipstick tube.

Arrrrggggggg......

Back to the dealer.....they had one in stock. $19.

Let me just add, it is super nice to actually know that the engine was 2 quarts low and luckily I hadn't been driving it at all, but man, who's idea was it to put that bolt that holds the tube in place where they did?

Glad it's done. Basic, but all too necessary.