YOU DIPSTICK!

[Guest u571]

Now that I have your attention-Does anyone know where to get a new oem replacement oil dipstick for a 401.The one in my engine seems very loose and what was probobly a rubber seal is hard as a rock.

Would this be a dealer item?

Thanks again,Mark

[Dales90]

hi,

whatever you do, save the original, until you find the replacement. I located one for my 90 Reatta, and went through several for the 3.8 v-6 that were close but always off a few 16ths.

dale

[Guest u571]

I agree with you Dale and may end up trying to rig up a new rubber stopper piece.

To partly answer my own question I called the dealer who told me they dont stock/make parts earlier than the mid 1970's and "oh,we cant get any parts from the 70's either"

Would an improper seal have any effect say on compression or engine power??

I just got the car and aside from the fact that is in nice general condition it neither goes or stops very well...much to sort out. Still has the original yellow crayon marks on the firewall and underside of the hood,how cool is that!

[Dales90]

Mark,

The ribber gasket is mostly to keep splash back crankcase oil from coming out, no vacuum or compression seal involved on the dipstick. I do keep an eye on craigslist for just such items if the guy may be selling a car for parts, and you could gain the stick before the car goes.

Dale

and, yes, yellow crayon marks, originality strikes again.