Too Loose Small Block Dipstick Tube Options

[Dibbons]

When I re-inserted the same dipstick tube in the 340 I rebuilt, sure enough it was a tad loose. Now that it's installed and running in the vehicle, it wants to just fall on out. The silicone or whatever I used to secure it was a complete and utter failure. Any leads for me on a decent replacement? Working on a '72 Satellite Sebring Plus.

 

[kiwigtx]

If both surfaces are clean, maybe JB Weld will help take up the gap and also secure it place.

I have had the reverse problem in the past where the aftermarket tube is too big for the block hole.

 

[1 Wild R/T]

This is where the tube fits in the timing cover? Might try one of the chrome plated tubes, they are usually oversized since the plating is over a standard diameter tube....

 

[Dibbons]

This is where the tube fits in the timing cover?

On a small block anyway the tube fits directly into a hole in the front of the cylinder block.

On the left side near the small core plug in the photo.

 

[1 Wild R/T]

Oops.. Yeah, block... It's a Ford small block that the stick goes through the timing cover... Same general area...

 

[PRND21]

I’d roughen the end of the tube, sandblast, 80 grit, something like that, especially if it’s chromed, then use the slow setting JB weld. Make sure both the hole and the tube are completely dry. A little in the hole, a little on the tube, fasten it, let it set up. Personally I rarely ever use silicone on anything that comes in contact with oil or fuel or coolant, too many times it just doesn’t seal.

 

[dadsbee]

Did ya try some polygrip??

 

[kiwigtx]

Did ya try some polygrip??

The parrot was busy.

 

[eldubb440]

old guy I knew used to say; "shut up and wrap some c#nt around it!"

 

[493 Mike]

Anyone ever try Teflon tape to build up the OD? Can you tell I was a plumber?
Mike

 

[Demonic]

Teflon tape is bad for lots of things, like oil pumps, fuel pumps, etc. It's not the first time you put it together, it's the bits that get pushed in the line the second time. Unless you thoroughly clean the female side of the threads. Many oils dissolve Teflon tape.

MRE - #628R Raw Oil Dipstick

https://www.ebay.com/itm/1566420351...8025019490&itmmeta=01KBWD0SVWJEX5STVABN6J1Z8K

 

[dvw]

I use Ultra Grey on all my dipstick tubes. They all have the holes drilled purposely oversize for slip fit and easy removal. None of them leak. Clean it well with brkeleen and a small round brush. Let it dry a few days before running it. This sealer dries slow.
Doug

 

[Dan64]

Maybe try to put the biggest drill bit in it that will fit to stop it from collapsing and stake it with a center punch a bunch, put some ultra on it and send it.