Dipstick Tricks - Hemi

Finishing the hemi install in the Cuda. Had to replace the other dipstick, custom bent RB, with something that will actually go in.
Was wrestling with this for a couple of hours but was unsuccessful as couldn't get hand in anywhere.

Combo is a 70 Barracuda, 426 hemi, Aruzza mounts, and TTI headers.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

thanks

kjh

you won't like to read this but you will probably have to remove the hemi to install the new dip stick. it can be done with the motor in the car. but your sanity will be much better if you remove the motor. if you install some of the aftermarket dip sticks you sometimes have to drill out the hole a little bit to get it in.

Every aftermarket tube I've installed needed the shaft that enters the block filed down. A belt sander works great or you can use a bench grinder. Just be careful not to go too far and be sure to use a little sealer on it. You will most likely have to bend the tube a little, be sure the end is lined up straight with the hole or it will not go in.

One trick to tap it home is to use a 3/8 crowfoot wrench on a long socket extension. The crows foot will catch above the rolled flange that seats on the block. You can probably tap it in from above that way. Also agree, as posted above, aftermarket dip sticks often need some grinding or sanding to fit the block.

I had the same trouble, broke the first one off inside the hole...

I made a tool similar to the crow foot idea...

This is in addition to grinding a bevel on the leading edge of the tube and using some lube to help it slide in..

Here is the tool.

Thanks for the suggestions.
Was thinking of making my own tool similar to the one above.
I did bevel the new dipstick. Will have to measure the old one to get the correct sizing.

Do not want to remove the engine.

Other last resort I was looking at was removing oil pan and putting in a drift pin from underneath...

kjh

I run Schumachers dip stick with good luck. The stick spirals down the tube. Used copper RV glue around base o far so good..

http://www.engine-swaps.com/

I switched to the Hughes Engines ferrel style dipstick holder, and will never use the original style again for the reasons you guys are discussing. It is the best!

http://www.hughesengines.com/Index/produ...mp;partid=11247