I am trying to install an upper dipstick tube in my 66 L79. The tube is a Paragon reproduction. There seems to be a lot of interference between the tube and the block. I have tried driving it in using an open end wrench at the base of the tube after the tube had been in the freezer with no luck. Does Paragon make this oversize? Do I need to take some off of the outside diameter?
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Re: Dipstick tube installation
This may sound dumb, but did you get the old tube out? Some times pieces break off and are left in there.
Is the block bare or the engine complete? If the pan is off, check the old tube isn't there and also run a ream or same-size drill bit down it to be sure there isn't rust in the hole. -
Re: Dipstick tube installation
Yes, the old tube is out. It had broken off at the block. I had to drop the pan and remove the old section by driving the lower tube up from the pan side. The previous upper tube was also a Paragon reproduction from about 15 years ago. It was very difficult to install as well. I believe I fractured the first tube around the collar during installation which lead to the later failure. I don't want to repeat this.Comment
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Re: Dipstick tube installation
I had the same problem with my 72. I took the tube, and holding it in a vise lightly, polished it down with emory cloth until it was a snug fit, and then tapped it down with socket over the tube, just sitting on the lip.Comment
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Re: Dipstick tube installation
I just did the same thing as Tom described. It worked great for me.Comment
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Re: Dipstick tube installation
Thanks, it looks like emory cloth is the way to go.Comment
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67 SB: How do I know....
...if the lower tube is installed or not? Would I have seen it extending down into the pan when the engine was removed? It has been professionally reassembled (several years ago) but never run, and I never really thought about the lower tube. Is it inserted from the top of the block? (67 327)
thanks in advance!
BrandonComment
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Re: 67 SB: How do I know....
with the upper tube out you can see the flared end down in the block.yes it goes in from the topComment
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Re: 67 SB: How do I know....
Thanks Clem...So does the lower tube extend out of the opening in the block or is it recessed inside it?
BrandonComment
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it is recessed
down inside the blockComment
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Re: 67 SB: How do I know....
The hole in the block is stepped. The lower tube sets on the step.Comment
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Re: 67 SB: How do I know....
And yes, it extends down into the pan area about even with the bottom of the crankshaft weights.Comment
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Re: Dipstick tube installation
Scott,
After emory paper & polishing, you might want to try putting the tube in a freezer overnight or for a couple hours. The thermal contraction of the tube OD may be just enough to allow you to drift it into the block, if you act quickly.
JeffComment
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