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MG MGB GT V8 Factory Originals Technical - In search of the perfect dipstick

After moving recently, I discovered that my dipstick is missing. Must have left it in the old house by accident. Any recommendations for a replacement that will fit and give me the proper readings. Engine is a 215 Olds-all stock.

Thanks for your help.
Allan

Allen,
I have my original Olds engine sitting on the garage floor. I can take measurements of the oil gauge/markings and publish the info here.
Making or remarking a dipstick isn't rocket science - you should be able to match up something thats close.
Graham Creswick

It's fairly easy to adapt something from a late model engine, which will do the job well and give a positive seal which is something the original never could do. I used one from a 4.6L Ford. I simply cut about 4" or so off the ford dipstick tube which was then a slip fit over the original tube. Put the recommended amount of oil in the crankcase, ran the engine to fill the filter, and then slid the tube down over the old one until the dipstick hit the full mark and brazed the two together. I was also able to use the attachment lug on the new tube to secure it to a head bolt. In all, a very nice replacement.

Jim
Jim Blackwood

...for the record, original Olds 215 dipstick (part #579974) dimensions as follows:
All dimensions from underside of the integral metal + rubber washer (same as surface of gauge hole in engine block)
to end of gauge 13-3/4"
to first mark (ADD 2) 12-1/2"
to second mark (ADD 1) 11-11/16"
to FULL mark 10-7/8"
......hope this helps!
Graham Creswick

For those who might want something a bit flashier or have clearance problems, LoCar makes a flexible shaft dip stick for street rods which is adaptable.
Calibration is similar to what Jim described.
Bill Young

My appologies, it's LoKar http://www.lokar.com/interior_pages/engdipstick.htm
Bill Young

hello,, i got one from D&D fabrication,, [old one was a riggen] its chrome plated & works just fine....but i think it has a different bend [cant remember mounting point] for use with rv8 headers...thier good people,,always willin to answer all my stupid questions,,without being annoyed,, get er goin,,HAVE SOME FUN...
denny 1

Alan,

As a back to back check with the dimensions given in the text above, when you do your next oil and filter change, fill up the engine with the specified volume of oil (from the manual) and check your dipstick is making sence.

James
J E G Eastwood 1

This thread was discussed between 13/04/2006 and 23/04/2006

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