[DeTomaso] Dipstick photos and measurements

[MikeLDrew at aol.com]

Hi guys,

I wanted to generate both heat and light on this topic.   It seemed to me 
that the oil level would be a fair bit more than just 1/2 inch below the 
crankshaft throws.   So I set up my spare block, which has a stock crank 
installed, and my spare dipstick tube, and a tape measure.   I set the forward 
journal to its lowest position, then inserted both an unmodified 1972 (too-long) 
dipstick, and a proper 38-inch dipstick, and set up my camera on a tripod 
to take good photos.

I chose to focus on the tape measure, which had the dipstick markings ever 
so slightly out of focus.   To eliminate any confusion, I marked the 
dipsticks with masking tape.   The bottom of the upper tape line corresponds with 
the "Safe" marking, and the top of the lower tape line is positioned on the 
"Add" line.

The fluid levels are substantially less than some would have you believe.   
This would help prevent the crank throws from splashing in the oil, while 
still providing plenty of oil to ensure the pickup doesn't get starved.

Photos here:

http://www.poca.com/index.php/gallery/?g2_itemId=36086

Does anybody need any other measurements/photos?   I'm about to pull the 
crank and ship it to a Pantera owner in France, so speak now or forever hold 
your peace. :>)

Cheers!

Mike