While trying to straighten the lower few inches of my dipstick out (please no comments), I accidentally snapped it off. The tube that stabs in the block has always been rather loose and the dipstick has always been a pain to get in and out. The headers I'm running make the stock set up difficult. Does anybody have a solution to this issue?

 

You looking for a way to remove a stuck tube?, or a replacement that is better than the stock setup?

 

The best and easiest way I've found to remove the stub is to use a slide hammer. I made up a small tool that is two screws welded head-to-head. One threads into the end of my slide hammer and the other is a large sheet metal screw that threads into the stub of the tube.

 

I have several different NOS guide tubes but no indicators... Do you want/need a guide tube that goes on the outside or in between the header tubes??? What engine/year are you using???

 

I would prefer to use a stock set up but modified to work with the headers. If that can't happen then I guess I'll go after market

I think the tube can be removed easily since it's so loose. If it doesn't come out I'll make something up like you did.

I have a 455/1970. I'd have to look again to see if thru the headers or on the outside would work best. I would be interested in your guide tube.

 

I keep thinking i should do a video of this. Joe has the best answer. it works everytime.

 

Either of the methods Joe mentions will work to remove the old one. I used a sheet metal screw threaded in with vise grips clamped on and a hammer. For replacement tubes, the SuperCars Unlimited tubes fit tight like stock, took a lot of effort to fit the block. The chrome dipsticks fit the block loosely and need the end ground down some to fit the block but are easy to remove with headers. I just bend the tube around the one header bolt, fits ok that way.

 

As I mentioned in your PM request, there are two guide tubes for the 455... Here are a few photos to show the difference & part numbers...

 

John,
I'll look to see which one will work out best with the headers and get back to you. Thanks for following up on this for me.

 

Still need a dipstick if anyone has an extra one they want to part with.

 

Rick -

The GM PN 401357 is the correct length/original dipstick TUBE for your motor with a stock pan.

Dipstick PN for a 455 would be 419242 but the later GM versions had a hideous yellow plastic handle on them so you may want an old original.

350 dipsticks and tubes are different as are the 455 Toro TUBES.

Use the wrong length tube and you won't have an accurate reading on the oil level.

 

Just a note, part number 400714 is an older part number for the indicator without the yellow plastic handle which was superseded by 419242... Finding one however may not be so easy, and if you do, will be costly... Also, if you choose to use the 417091 guide, the indicator is the same...

 

If unable to locate a NOS or used dipstick, consider a repop from Inline Tube. I ordered one (yet to arrive) for $24 and it has an orange tip on handle. They claim the PN is on it, too - 400714

 

Patton,
Thanks for the info. Do you have or know anyone with an OEM stick?

John,
PM sent

May end up going that route until an OEM one can be located. I'm going to the Nationals so maybe I can score one there.

 

PM answered... Please send me your shipping address via my email: DIEHARDOLDS@NYCAP.RR.COM

 

The LOKAR 5008 for a LS Chevy will work with a little modification. The bottom fitting needs to be ground flat on the back to clear the block. Tom

 

Rick - I don't have any extra 455 dipsticks.....sorry. The ILT version may be the way to go especially if it has the small plastic "plug" on the handle end like the old originals have (as StLoiusBluesBro mentions).

I'll ask another guy here and see if he has anything.