Accurate Dip Stick read

[Lurkio]

I know you are meant to check the oil level when the engine is cold, I just cant get a decent read on the dip stick, it's roughly 2 inches above max, but still not clear. Oil pressure around 40psi, runs superb, any suggestions on taking an accurate oil level read, mant thanks, Chris.

[spartacus]

Lurkio said:

I know you are meant to check the oil level when the engine is cold, I just cant get a decent read on the dip stick, it's roughly 2 inches above max, but still not clear. Oil pressure around 40psi, runs superb, any suggestions on taking an accurate oil level read, mant thanks, Chris.

2 inches!!!!!! its shouldn't be more than a couple of mm above the max!

Take dipstick out night before & clean, dip oil level in the morning, the reading in the back will be accurate, by leaving it overnight the dipstick tube empties of oil so you don't get a false reading.

[longbow]

2 inches!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! On a dip stick that would be a major overfill. If you want a truely accurate reading, remove the dipstick overnight and then check on a cold engine. With that much oil in your sump, the crank will be making a lot of waves!

[thegreengoblet]

Agree with leaving the stick out and it must be done cold. If cold, I can leave my dip-stick out for just 5-10 minutes and this is usially enough time to get a good reading.
And when you re-dip, don't lock the dip-stick i.e. just push it in all the way - don't do the final 1/4 turn. My reading is always clear on the reverse side to the markings side. Just try and keep her on the max.

[satman]

Lurkio said:

I know you are meant to check the oil level when the engine is cold, I just cant get a decent read on the dip stick, it's roughly 2 inches above max, but still not clear. Oil pressure around 40psi, runs superb, any suggestions on taking an accurate oil level read, mant thanks, Chris.

Even this sounds a little low?...mine only does this on tick over when the engine has had a good run on a hot day!...FYI mine is 60psi cold tick over..65-70 on a run..drops anywhere between 40-50 when nice and warm on tick over. May I suggest that you get the oil pressure relief spring changed...should make a big difference to reading.

[kojak]

Leave the dipstick out over night and check in the morning. Never fails for me.

[simonkd]

Like Kojak says I leave the dipstick out overnight then check following morning, 2inches above max line does seem like there's far too much oil in there.

Regards
Simon.

[ridds]

The problem you have is the oil seal at the top.

As you remove the dipstick this creates suction in the dipstick tube and sucks the oil up the tube.

However if you remove the rubber gromit at the top this will affect you measuring height.

[350matt]

Although it is helpful to run a little bit over the max as the std brakes are very good and the sump baffling is not so good.


Matt

[Tripps]

The reading on the reverse of mine always seems goods when done with a cold engine. Wipe the stick down, leave a few minutes and go back...

[Lurkio]

Thanks lads, I'll give it a whirl with the dipstick out when cold, I'm sure its alright, but its best to be on the safe side, bit concerned about oil pressure, running about 40-45psi, is that enough? Thanks for the info, cheers, Chris.

[ridds]

Anything over 30 psi at warm idle is adequate tbh.

Many modern engines run at this when warm. The more the better but that will do.