Aftermarket dipstick

[OregonNed]

I've been doing little things along the way under the hood and recently purchased one of those stainless steel billet type units that mount to a header bolt. What I had original was probably a Mr Gasket or something that was kind of beat up. I like how it mounts into the block - its very firm. when inserted the knob end fits kind of loosely in the receptacle. It has one small o ring. Does that sound normal for these? I doubt driving or running the engine would expel it. It was only $18, and I'm wondering now if a Moroso or Lokar might be better? Any experience with any of these mentioned? Also based on the old dipstick five quarts with one for the filter registers full, bit the new one barely has a wet tip. Somewhat shorter. I have an aftermarket chrome pan but I'm sure is similar to stock. Thanks all

[Gmc.guy]

You can take a tubing cutter, or anything I guess, try and get a clean cut. Then trim the top of the dipstick tube down until the dipstick reads full. Just make sure it is full when you do it. The tubing cutter might close the end a little bit too and make the dipstick fit a little tighter as well

[Gmc.guy]

I see now you said billet, maybe not so easily trimmed down,

[OregonNed]

Might could use the old dremel a bit. Great idea you had on this. Thank you

[rcazwillis]

Is the tube stainless? The tube cutter idea would probably work. Billet usually means machined from a solid material, usually aluminum. I am guessing it is not a machined tube and is made from stainless or chromed steel.

For the loose stick, a larger o-ring might tighten it up.

[OregonNed]

Thanks, all. I was going to work on it and the stainless braided body pulled right out of the block connector. Then I drove down to my local parts vendor and bought a stock chrome tube and stick - it fit perfectly and reads the oil level just as perfect. I tossed the one I had bought - stock is better in this case!