TECH

CORRECT DIPTSTICK LENGTH

ENGINE OIL LEVEL (DIPSTICK LENGTH) - TSB 5, ARTICLE 34

Correct Dipstick Length = 38″ (measured from tip to the BOTTOM of the cup at the handle)

DIPSTICK LENGTH FOR 10-QUART OIL PANS

The correct dipstick length for ALL OIL PANS on a 351C is 38″ regardless of whether you are using a 10-quart Aviad, Armando, or Kevko pan. Reason is, the correct oil level is established to be at the correct level in relationship to the rotating crankshaft; not too high, and not too low. That level is independent of the type, capacity, or depth of the oil pan.

 

Although a deeper pan does not require a different dipstick, it DOES require a longer oil pump pick-up tube to place the pick-up near the bottom of the deeper pan.

 

Following is another way to ensure your dipstick reads correctly:

  1. Change your oil and filter
  2. Add 6-quarts of oil
  3. Start and run the engine for a minute or two
  4. Turn off the engine and let it sit for a time (10 minutes)
  5. Remove the dipstick and mark the oil level with a file