Checking Oil Level

[anonymous-user]

So how does one check the oil level in an R400D, dry sump with the triangular tower tank?

The handbook says to do it with the engine running, when the level should be 5mm below the middle baffle.

That isn't possible with the return feed shooting oil right across the line of vision and the turbulence etc. You can't see what the level is.

I know that it's got enough oil in now and have taken a depth measurement 5 minutes after switching off, when hot. I assume that would be a reasonably consistent way to do it but would appreciate any other ideas.

[CraigyB]

With the engine hot, but not running, check the level as you hinted at

[DCL]

The level is not critical. As long as there is around 6-7 litres in it you'll be fine. My own personal method is to fill to just below the return feed pipe and let the surplus work its way to the catch tank over time. It is worth noting that the oil does drain back to the sump so do it with the engine running and after some use.

[anonymous-user]

Thanks guys. DCL, are you sure, just below the return pipe? With 6L of oil, the level is maybe half way up my tank, it would take maybe 9/10 L to get up to just below the return pipe which is very close to the top.

[sfaulds]

If you have it just covering the top baffle while hot and running, it shouldn't kick anything into the catch tank. Takes about 7.5l to fill.

[anonymous-user]

Thanks guys, I think I've twigged it now!

[Gregs79]

Realist123, I was thinking the same as you! Thanks for asking the question. :-)

[anonymous-user]

Gregs79 said:

Realist123, I was thinking the same as you! Thanks for asking the question. :-)

You're welcome! I've taken to running it just below the middle baffle, you can see it running and double check it as you turn engine off.