Oil Dipstick Tube - Crate Engine

[Rob M.]

Does anyone know what the pros and cons are for locating the oil dipstick tube on the driver's side versus the passenger side of a new crate engine (350 cu. in./290 hp)? Car is a 1963 convertible with no power steering, power brakes, etc. Also, the oil dipstick tube for the passenger side (GM part 12552920) has a bracket near the upper part of the tube that looks like it would attach to one of the exhaust manifold bolts. Unfortunately, when the tube is inserted into the block, the bracket does not line up with any bolt. Any suggestions and advice would be welcomed! Thanks, Rob

[David L.]

Re: Oil Dipstick Tube - Crate Engine

Rob,

Can't an original 63-64 Corvette dipstick tube (GM # 3826074) be installed on the passenger side of a new crate 350 engine?

Dave

[Joe L.]

Re: Oil Dipstick Tube - Crate Engine

Dave and Rob------


It can if the ID of the block orifice on the passenger side is 0.432". If the orifice ID is that dimension on the driver side, then it can be installed on that side. I believe the orifices are different ID on either side.

However, even if one uses the 63-64 tube, the 63-64 dip stick will not be accurate due to difference in the oil pan between the original engine and the crate engine. So, one will need to "custom-calibrate" a dip stick.

If the dipstick tube orifice on the DRIVER side is 0.432" here's something that I think will work.

dipstick tube-------GM #3876870

dipstick-------------GM #3951576

The above parts were used for 1975 Corvettes and I believe the 1975 Corvette oil pan configuration as far as sump dimensions and oil capacity goes is the same as the pan on the crate engine. The above parts are still available from GM and at a modest cost.

[Rob M.]

Re: Oil Dipstick Tube - Crate Engine

Thanks guys --- appreciate the help!