Oil Dipstick Q's: (markings and length)

[Wayne M.]

I think my '65 L76 has its original [handle is loop of round tubing, no dimple, black button, chromed handle and tube skirt (bell). Lettering is the required ADD: :FULL ENGINE OIL M, and is debossed (ie punched from the back side). In my '70 Corvette P & A 30 Parts Catalogue there's a diagram for what should be part #3864974 showing a dimension of 20 5/32" from the FULL mark to the tube seat. My dipstick matches this length only if I measure up the skirt, to where the dipstick would seat upon insertion into the upper tube in the block. Is this the correct location to verify this measurement ?

Also, my rubber boot (protruding from inside the bell) has a small chunk missing. Several reproduction parts suppliers list a repair kit, consisting of the boot and plastic button. Can the old boot be removed by pulling with nose pliers, or is it more complicated ?

Lastly, when did GM start adding different markings, stamped, not debossed, like (ADD 1 QT / FULL /USE SE ENGINE OIL (sideways "E"), and when did they start stamping the part # as well ?

[Loren L.]

Re: Oil Dipstick Q's: (markings and length)

The Oct 64 and Oct 67 Parts Books are even worse - they list the part # and NO dimensions. It's not until a July 1968 revision in my books that the 20 5/32 and 20 15/16 figures show up. I also have two examples in custody and they are both like yours.
No idea on the repair procedure, thankfully - mine don't need it......