Hate the Tacoma oil dipstick

[K2]

Am I the only one that hates the damn dip stick on the X? I can't get an accurate reading on this damn thing. Every time it, because of the bend, it just smears oil all over the damn thing. What's the trick? Lame question I know but I've checked the oil numerous times since the new engine went in and I added a little oil b/c it looked a little low (normal after new engine) but I checked it this morning and it still looked low --- and I mean like half way between the dots. WTF?! :motz:

 

[Torspd]

On a fresh fill, it takes right around 7 quarts. Could be why it seems to keep being low? Until all of the areas are full.

 

[JiNsEiGaNaI]

I think all dip sticks smear! I NEVER seen one that was a perfectly clean line! But i never had this problem before but if u were losing oil, it would be a leak but if u dont have a leak, then i dont see how u could lose oil

 

[X-roller]

^^true. just pull it and wipe it around 3 to 4 times and then you will start getting accurate readings...

 

[TheAngeryGinger]

The best dip stick I've ever seen was on the Accord be my X. It was a 14g cable with a tab of steel at the end. I had very little problems with it.

 

[K2]

I've put in 5.5 quarts so far. No leaks under the truck.

Best dip stick was on my Beretta. The end had crosshatched marks engraved in the stick. Easy to get a reading and never had a smearing problem like this. I read on another forum that some people sand the end of the dipstick a bit. Don't know if that would make a diff or not. Having just lost an engine to low oil/burning oil, naturally I'm a little nervous after this $3,000 out of pocket investment.

 

[quiksheit]

Yup just sand the dipstick perpendicular to the length of the stick. Wipe if off good and now the oil will stick a little better.

 

[trd_sport]

so do we want the oil to be above both rivets or in between the 2 rivets on the stick?

 

[Torspd]

At the top dimple, not lower.

 

[Gators Taco]

5 qrts with new filter, that's all it needs. Do you have a deeper oil pan to use 7 qrts

 

[Tunedx]

If u are running oil cooler, engine needs a little extra oil.

 

[Torspd]

5 qrts with new filter, that's all it needs. Do you have a deeper oil pan to use 7 qrts

The reason I mentioned the 7 quarts, is because the vehicle manual says close to what I said, when the engine is completely dry. The oil has to fill up the cams, the crank, the recesses by the shim buckets, the filter, and so on.

Other than that, one all is filled, then it will be a solid 5, after that. Unless there is a large oil filter, and/or deep oil pan. :top:

 

[K2]

I'm thinking Torspd may be right. Checked it this afternoon and finally got a decent reading. I'm gonna put in another 1/2 quart this evening and check again tomorrow. That will make 6 quarts that I've put in but I'm guessing by the reading I got that 7 is going to be closer to full. And yes, the engine was dry because we swapped the oil pans.