Dipstick for SBC

[ChuckN]

Hey fellers and fellettes -

I was thinking after work last night that one part I need to add to my list is a new dipstick for the 388 build. I searched here but not definitive information. I’m pretty sure the machine shop ruined mine pounding the lower tube out of the block.

There’s a lot of different options out there- more than I planned on. It is a driver side block. Lots of reports of different diameters that fit in the block, lengths, etc. of course, I will continue to run my ceramic coated headers.

A local shop has a Mr Gasket on the shelf that “allegedly “ fits my application. I “think” my oil pan is stock capacity but hard to tell. Just a cheap chrome aftermarket pan that came with the truck.

Any suggestions are appreciated. Thanks in advance. I never thought that choosing a dipstick would be that much of a chore.

 

[bucket]

The Mr Gasket one has been around as long as dirt. The style of pan doesn't matter, the proper level of oil in relation to the crank does not change.

Be careful during installation. Not only does it need to clear the exhaust, you don't want it aiming at the brake booster. That can be annoying. Just make sure you are happy with the clocking of the tube.

 

[ChuckN]

Got it.

 

[TotalyHucked]

Realistically, as long as it goes far enough in the pan without interfering with the crank, you can always dump in however much oil you need (I assume 5-6qts) so it's known to be correct and then scribe the dipstick.