Dipstick problem

[Dr_EluSivE]

I just finished putting a rebuilt 86 5.0 roller motor into a 64 Comet (same chassis as mustangs) and somehow during the rebuild we missed the fact that the 86 motor has a dipstick in the rear, but the comet oil pan has the Sump in the front, so when the dipstick is inserted it hits the inside of the oil pan, and doesnt read anything. I know there is 5qts in the pan, but since the dipstick doesnt actually go into the sump, i get no reading. Had anyone encountered this problem before? It doesnt look like a fox mustang pan would fit the comet crossmember. Is there a way to move the dipstick to the front? I hear there is a timing cover that has a dipstick tube built on, anyone know more about that? I would really like to be able to check my oil.

Dr.

 

[rbohm]

as i recall the 86 front cover still has the dipstick hole drilled in it, but it also has a plug in the hole. oyu need to pop the plug out and install a dipstick tube in the front cover. you also have to plug the hole in the block to prevent oil leaks. usually the hole is plugged with a cork that is hammered into place.

 

[65ShelbyClone]

You didnt mention if you are using v belts or serpentine. If the timing cover has a hole like rbohm said, just get a front dipstick. The factory holes are usually plugged with something like a small freeze plug.

 

[geostang351]

You need to plug the rear hole and drill a new hole in the front through the timing cover. There is a flat spot in the timing cover on the passenger side where this is to be done

 

[Dr_EluSivE]

thanks guys, we are running the serpentine setup so going back to the old cover isnt an option, I will check and see if there is a capped hole in the front cover already. If there isnt where exactly should i drill the hole, and any idea what size? Is the flat spot you speak of pretty obvious?

Dr.

 

[geostang351]

It is, but I did it before I reassembled teh motor and did it on a drill press. I do not remember the correct size, it was a while ago. HTe flat spot is at a slight angle if I rememeber correctly but is about 1 1/2" long by 3/4" wide

 

[blueovalguy]

You could also buy a Canton oil pan (or other brand) and they will put the dipstick in the pan for you .

 

[Loup-garou]

thanks guys, we are running the serpentine setup so going back to the old cover isnt an option, I will check and see if there is a capped hole in the front cover already. If there isnt where exactly should i drill the hole, and any idea what size? Is the flat spot you speak of pretty obvious?

Dr.

Have a look here:

http://www.mustangandfords.com/howto/16159/

Note the modification to the alternator bracket, too.