In changing out the motor mounts on my big block, I unbolted the oil dip stick tube and tried to remove it so I could get the mount out of the way. Well, the tube ended up breaking off inside the block. I see there are new repro tubes available. My question is, were they clear zinc coated from the factory or natural steel color? I know they weren’t painted. Only the handle of the dipstick was painted. Was the handle black or engine color?

Thanks

It depends on the brand, year and model of car for the motor for which dipstick and tube it came with

Your handle in 69 was dipped in Black paint and your tube was unpainted with a clear zinc coating as far as I know.
In 1969 the tube is the style that goes outside of exhaust manifold not between manifold and valve cover.
Ron

Ok, so its not the orange paint that is on the handle thats currently on there. I couldn't remember if the tube was bare steel or clear zinc coated.

Cab,

The car is a 69 roadrunner with a big block.

Why don't you ask John A. for detail advice, he has a 69 OE Gold car.