Checking oil level

jackytdunaway · #1 (**permalink**) 07-07-2007

I have a Universal M-12 and cannot get a good reading on the dipstick no matter how i try. I try to pull it out straight so the goo on the side doesn't distort the reading but everytime i pull it out it is covered. It doesn't matter if i just changed the oil or not the stick is black all over. I have a hose fitting from the bottom to drain it. does anyone know of any device or viewer that can be hooked to that so i can look at it to see the level. any ideas at all would be appreicated.

CapnHand · #2 (**permalink**) 07-07-2007

Stupid question but you're checking the oil level before you start the engine? Trying to check the oil level when the engine is running may give the effect you are describing.

If you can't read the oil level in the engine, how do you know when to stop adding oil when you do an oil change? If the dipstick is all black, it's possible that you could have flooded the crank case with oil and the oil level you're seeing is real (ie, way past full). Overfilling the crankcase will result in engine damage.

It could be that you have a build up of sludge in the dipstick tube that is adhering to the dipstick. Have you tried removing the dipstick tube and cleaning it out? If you remove the dipstick tube and oil runs out the hole, you have overfilled the crankcase. If that's the case, drain a quart of oil out, replace the dipstick tube, add a cup of oil at a time, checking between additions until the level is between the marks.

jackytdunaway · #3 (**permalink**) 07-07-2007

I am checking before i start the engine and i changed the oil making sure i put in the spec amount. there is not a dipstick tube the dipstick goes straight into the block

Sapperwhite · #4 (**permalink**) 07-07-2007

Me: "Hey I need a new dipstick."

Mechanic: "Why, what's wrong with your old one?"

Me: "It doesn't reach the oil anymore."

Just kidding

CapnHand · #5 (**permalink**) 07-07-2007

The specs call for 1.5 to 2 qts. What I do is add the minimum, wait a minute, check, add a cup more, wait a minute, check, repeat until it's just below the full mark. It could be that you added too much oil and the level is too high. I'd try draining 1/2 to 3/4 quart of oil out and see if that's the problem.

Sailormann · #6 (**permalink**) 07-07-2007

Probably best to install a new engine just to be on the safe side ....