I need some dims from an 86 or newer Chevy small block

[Samckitt]

I need someone who had an 86 or newer chevy engine without the oil pan on it to measure something for me. I need to know the distance from the pan mounting surface to the end of the dipstick as it would be seated in place.

Thanks,
Scot

[CarlC]

Scot, I don't think that is the dimension you need.

If you are trying to determine the proper length to make the dipstick gauge your method will not work. Your method assumes a stock pan and oil level. To approximately determine the depth of the gauge with your new pan you can fill it with water until the level reaches the top of the kickout fill bung. This is the full level for the CV/Champ pan. With this level you can determine if a stock dipstick can be used by drilling the windage tray.

If you determine that a stock type dipstick gauge can work then it becomes necessary to mount the pan and fill it with oil to determine the proper "Full" line. Again, fill the pan, insert the dipstick, and note where the oil is on the dipstick. Mark the oil line as the proper "Full" point.

I like using the Lokar dipstick that mounts directly into the block head surface. This dipstick uses a stainless wire for the gauge and is held in place by a set screw. Trim the length to suit your pan. There's a picture on my website.

[Samckitt]

No I am trying to determine how far into the pan the dipstick will go to see if I actually do have to drill the windage tray. I took the windage try out & the aluminum piece under it last night & found a dilema. The front wall that has the trap door in it is right where the dipstick comes into the pan. The guys at champ pans tell me that the oil level with the new pan & 8 qts will be the same as the old pan with 5 qts.

Thankjs,
Scot

[CarlC]

We're talking the same thing.

Put eight quarts of water in the new pan and see where the level is. The water level is where the "Full" line on the new dipstick needs to be.

This same level should also be at the top of the fill bung on the drivers side.