[DeTomaso] Dipstick tube reach into block/oil pan

[MikeLDrew at aol.com]

In a message dated 6/19/11 11 03 33, kenn_green at yahoo.com writes:


> I noticed that the Pantera dip stick I bought has a tube that reaches 
> about 10 inches into the engine.  The engine had a regular Ford dip stick 
> (maybe Windsor) with a tube that only reaches about 3 inches into the engine 
> with more exposed rod.  Any ideas why the difference and if a Cleveland 
> should have the longer tube reach?
> 

The vendor I'm mentioning shall remain unnamed.   But I recently 
orchestrated the purchase of a new dipstick and tube assembly for a 351W to go into a 
Pantera.   The vendor did a great job of producing a very nice-looking 
dipstick, but there was absolutely NO science or calculation involved, and the 
resultant dipstick was something like three inches too short!!!!!!

The vendor said, "Have him tell me what he needs and I'll make him a new 
dipstick, however long he wants it to be".   While such customer service is 
admirable, I would think the proper thing to do would be to take the time to 
determine what the appropriate length is, and then make it right the first 
time, rather than just sending something out the door that you don't even 
think is right.

The customer solved the problem by shortening the tube at the back end; 
this then allows the dipstick to go further into the pan.

I advocate 'tuning' Pantera dipstick length by using a known good starting 
point.   You can buy a brand new standard 351C or 351W dipstick and tube 
assembly (as required) for about ten bucks.   Install that, see where the 
'full' and 'empty' marks are.   Then install your Pantera setup, and either 
shorten the tube to lengthen the dipstick, or re-mark the dipstick if it's too 
long already.

Mike