Grab the top of the dipstick tube and carefully but firmly push it inward towards the block about an inch. Then your next dipstick replacement (which must be from a similar-year engine as the one in your car, or you will have to grab the dipstick and tube) won't get chopped off by the crank.

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一期一会
Too many people who were born on third base actually believe they've hit a triple.

I've had the same problem. I put the new dipstick in the trunk, and left the chopped stick in the tube. I have to swap them out to check the oil.

If you can't find the right dipstick, you can use almost any dipstick. Just change your oil and fill to capacity. Then dip the stick and mark the oil level. Now you know where full is.

Dan, I don't quite understand what you mean, but I am going to try it out when I get to the car. Maybe it will hit me then. Thanks

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'71 Dart Swinger

Thanks for the ideas

I think that the dipstick in the trunk is the best for me right now. I must confess, I don't fully understand what you mean either Dan.

Dan means to bend the tube at about the point where it goes into the block. This'll angle your dipstick away from the crankshaft.

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"Mad Scientist" Matt Cramer
'66 Dart - turbocharged 225
My blog - Mad Scientist Matt's Lair

Thanks for clearing that up. I would be nice to leave the dipstick in the tube. I'll give it a try.

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'71 Dart Swinger

IIRC, the stick on the car pans should be 9" longer than the tube. There have been many different length tubes and sticks.

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Official Cookie and Mater Tormentor.