killain

How difficult is it to replace the oil dipstick tube on my 79 L-48? Is there some special way to install it? It is curved and I was wondering how it gets installed? Can anyone help me?

Dr_stingray

I dont think that i could help you but i need to replace mine as well, because mine is leaking oil out of it.

gearheadz

The tube is pressed in from the top. It usually is quite easily removed by simply grasping the tube and then pulling & twisting by hand. On one occasion, I did have to thread a large screw into the tube opening to get a good enough grip to remove it.

A leak at the base is remedied by cleaning the tube base & then applying a a small amount of Permatex sealer before reinstalling. Leaks out of the top of the tube usually require a dipstick replacement because there's a small seal inside the dipstick handle flange that fits over the tube. You shouldn't have a leak at the top. If so, check your PCV valve or valve cover breathers to make sure you have good crankcase ventilation.

Mark

killain

Hay Mark, Mine is just loose. Do I need a replacement or can I fix the one I have and how do you get it back down in the block again? what do you use to tap it back down with?

Frankenvette

My tube comes out easy with just a good twist and pull. Don't even bother buying the cheap replacements from the local autoparts store. They are "real" cheap. I wanted to replace mine but took the cheap replacement back and just cleaned and painted my original. If I do replace it, I think I will check out a GM replacement if its not to expensive.

gearheadz

I would definitely fix the original tube. If you have access to a cheap propane torch, you can add a very, very SMALL amount of solder to the tube surface. One little bead on a side should be enough to give you a tight fit. If you lay on too much you can always grind or file it off.

Another option is to put a very thin layer of JB Weld on the tube, let it dry overnight and then reinsert the tube. JB Weld dries to like steel and is virtually permanent stuff. You can grind or file as needed.

To reinsert the tube, while supporting at the base, tap lightly with a hard rubber/plastic mallet until its seated. You can use a regular hammer if you use a small piece of wood between it and the hammer to protect the tube.

Mark

Vettesic

Killain,
I got mine direct from the GM parts counter for my 80. Came complete with dipstick. Jack/support up Vette on the Passenger side and work form underneith. The old tube popped right out. There is a bracket on top of the tube that mounts to outside rear valve cover bolt. Easy job. Good Luck, L8TER, Paul.

TAFFYJONES

K,your dipstick tube is a pain,when u pull and turn to manouver up around engine[tricky]remember how u did it coz it's harder to put back!Also i think there should be a rubber 'O'ring on the bottom of stick at ridge.There was on my 77 VETTE,once pushed back in hole against 'o'ring and bolted at TOP it should be solid! :cool:

killain

Thanks, Mine doesn't have a bracket that bolts to something. It's just a curved tube and I suppose it's a tight fit into the block. I'll try the solder trick or I'll order a replacement from Chevrolet. Thanks everyone.

Jim 77

TTT. Those of you who have an attachment at the top of the tube tell me more! I don't... is there a place to buy this bolt/bracket?
Thanks!
Jim

aqua80

The bolt is real neet at holding it in and it just attaches to the exhaust
manifold bolt. can't remember which right now. Its pretty dummy proof.
The lokar aftermarket one look nice but I haven't used one..

Juliet

Killain - the early shark dipstick handles have a little dot on the end of the curl where you lift them up. NCRS judges check for these in the 68-72 division - check if there's something similar for yours. Also make sure the replacement one (if you go that route) is the same length / depth or you'll be getting an innacurate oil fill level reading. I remember reading about some differences in some of the replacement ones from the original ones. ~Juliet