Classic/Antique Car Repair/235 oil capacity

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Expert: - 11/18/2008


Question
I saw your response to a 235 cubic inch oil capacity question. I just had a 1962 235 rebuilt for a 1953 chevy pick-up I am restoring. The machine shop put 5 quarts in the engine and the dip-stick shows nothing. Obviously either the dip-stick is too short or someone pressed a longer dip-stick tube into the block. Do you know how long the dipstick is supposed to be for that motor; and/or how long the dip-stick tube is supposed to be (above where it enters the block)?
Thank you, James

Answer
Hi James:
Not sure of the exact length of the dipstick, but what you can do is, take your current dipstck with you to Autozone, Carquest, NAPA, etc. and tell them it is too short and have them lookup the correct stick for your pickup. If they tell you the stick is the correct length, that means the tube has been changed. In that case have them give you a longer stick anyway to try.

The key here is, if you know your engine is full of oil (5 quarts without filter, 6 with), then you know where the oil should come up to on the stick. A bit trial and error, but the best way to get it right.

Also, very important to check the oil while the engine is COLD and NOT running, and sitting on a level surface.

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Vern Bullock

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Visit my website at: http://www.classytransportation.com/ I can answer most questions about autos built in the 60's 70's and 80's. Specifically, Lincolns, Rolls Royces and the Excaliburs. Mechanical issues and technical questions are my expertise. I also have a general knowledge of most older automobiles. Keep in mind, I can only provide answers if the questions are very specific and complete. Without details, I can only speculate and that's not good for solving your problem.

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I have owned and maintained Silver Shadows for over 10 years now. I find most mechanics and even Rolls Royce mechanics have very little knowledge about these automobiles. I have researched these cars in quite a bit of detail and can pretty much tell you what is wrong, if you can describe the behavior in detail. I have saved quite a few RR owners a lot of money and aggravation due to improper diagnosis. I am the owner of Classy Transportation, LLC a luxury limousine service specializing in antique cars, classic cars, vintage cars and exotic cars.

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