Checking 964 oil level

[tallpaulw]

I need to check the level on my recently bought 964. I understand that it needs to be left to warm up and must be on the flat. Once i can feel that the drivers side wing is warm, does that mean the the thermostat is definately open and i can check the level. If i use the gauge on the dash rather than the stick, where is acceptable? If i use the stick do i check it whilst its still running?

[Paul Dishman]

I always check the oil after taking the car for a run so that everything is at operating temperature, then use the dipstick with the car parked on level ground and the engine idling.

[stup]

On level ground and when oil temp needle is at least at the indicator marker that is positioned around the 8 o'clock mark(but below midway), at this time remove the dip stick when still at tickover, wipe it clean put back in then remove and check that level is shown somewhere between half way and just below the max, this is ideal.
If still unsure at this point take the car a quick spin at lower revs for a mile or so then return to repeat above on level ground after the car stationary for a minute or so to confirm..At this point look at the oil level gauge to compare against the proper level you have found on the dip stick..Dip stick is "king" for checking oil level,the dash level gauge is only a second guide ( although usually accurate also)

[tallpaulw]

Thanks for the info, very helpful.

[bridey0]

The car won't be up to full running temp after 15 mins.
I have mine out for a Good 45 minutes then u know its accurate . The guage at 3/4 full is fine when car sitting flat

[Jimmy Riviera]

As others have mentioned, the motor needs to be thoroughly warm and the motor should be running. Give the motor another 10 minutes or so of running once the oil pressure relief valve has opened up, extending the circuit to include the cooler in the front wing and naturally the pipe work carrying the oil to the front from the rear and back again. The opening of the valve is very obvious if you keep an eye on the pressure gauge upon starting / running the car from cold. When cold, even at idle, the gauge will read anything from 3 upwards depending on idle speed. When the valve opens, the gauge will very noticeably drop at idle as the circuit is extended and will fluctuate as revs build / drop with throttle input.

Make sure car is level etc and welcome to the fraternity!

Edited by Jimmy Riviera on Sunday 17th February 14:36

[melv]

A few years ago Adrian Newey's wife had a 964 serviced by a well known specialist......AN rang them the following morning to complain he'd checked the level in his wife's car and there was nought on the dip stick......he checked it cold -now explain the above procedure to Mr. Newey!!

Welcome to the fold