C3 Dipstick tube replacement

[Robert S.]

This is a new questions related to my previous post involving having the wrong dipstick on my L48 74'.

If I a interpreting the catalogues correctly the dipstick tube on the engine is actually in two pieces.

1. Is that correct?
2. What holds the two pieces together - friction fit?
3. If I need to replace just the upper tube (and the dipstick of course) can I just pull the upper tube out of the lower tube or will they likely both come out together from the engine block?
4. There also appears to be a gasket where the lower tube mates to the engine block. Would it be best to buy an upper tube, lower tube, gasket and install all new parts at the same time ?( ie is this likely the least hassle for this task as all these parts are realtively inexpensive)
5. Any other thoughts or suggestions from those who have done a dipstick tube replacement?

I am just tring to anticipate what I am getting into on this task.

[Harmon C.]

Re: C3 Dipstick tube replacement

I have had the tube out and it is one piece with no gasket just tap it down tight. If their is a second part you need not worry about it as it would be inside the pan. This should be an easy change but getting the correct dipstick and tube as original may take some searching.

[Jeff S.]

Re: C3 Dipstick tube replacement

A flare nut wrench can be slipped over the upset bulge, then tapped in with a small hammer. If the interference fit is too tight, clean any paint off of the male portion, then put in the freezer overnight to slightly shrink the OD.

[Mike E.]

Re: C3 Dipstick tube replacement

It is a two-piece unit, but the lower piece has a shoulder that stops it in the proper location in the block as it protrudes into the pan. You need not worry about that piece at all--just focus on the upper piece, as the previous advice has been good.