Dipstick problem
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Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 63
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From: RONKONKOMA NY
Dipstick problem
My car is a 96 lt4 CE conv with about 104,000 miles. The engine(bone stock) still runs strong and has never had a problem besides optispark replacement. About a week ago I noticed a burning oil smell and traced it to oil drops on the passenger side exhaust manifold. I noticed that the dipstick was not fully seated and pushed it back. A few days later, same smell, same problem. Has anyone ever had this problem? How do I fix this? Thanks in advance. :confused:
Burning Brakes
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 1,189
Likes: 2
From: Austin TX
Re: Dipstick problem (LT4DRIVER)
I sounds like you might be experiencing a little too much crankcase pressure.
Is your PCV system working and free from obstruction?
If yes, then you might do a compression test to see if you have any
low cylinders that might suggest blow-by past the rings, although
a leak-down test would be a more positive indication.
Dan
Is your PCV system working and free from obstruction?
If yes, then you might do a compression test to see if you have any
low cylinders that might suggest blow-by past the rings, although
a leak-down test would be a more positive indication.
Dan
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Drifting
Joined: Oct 2003
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From: CALGARY ab
Re: Dipstick problem (LT4DRIVER)
I noticed that the dipstick was not fully seated and pushed it back.:
Thread Starter
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Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 63
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From: RONKONKOMA NY
Re: Dipstick problem (danno85)
The dipstick tube is ok. The dipstick itself is moving out of the tube. Your explanation sounds logical. I don't have the tools to perform a leakdown test. I guess I'm going to the dealership. Does this sound like an expensive problem? The suggestion to create a plug from a vacuum hose end sounds like a band-aid fix which ignores the underlying problem. What do you guys think?
Burning Brakes
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,024
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From: Long Island New York
Re: Dipstick problem (LT4DRIVER)
LT4,
Have you ever tried removing the dipstick and simply putting your thumb over the top of the tube while running? Long shot but just an idea. try this while revving the engine a bit and see if you can feel any pressure buildup. It may at least give you an indication of whether or not you are bulding excessive crancace pressure. Hopefully it is just a PCV system problem, although of course that would just be too easy. I'd just hate to see you bring your car down to ramp and get charged $$$$. Try everything possible before going there; don't overlook the simple stuff and good luck. Perhaps i'll run into you at bald hill over the season. See you on the road! Good Luck!
:chevy
Have you ever tried removing the dipstick and simply putting your thumb over the top of the tube while running? Long shot but just an idea. try this while revving the engine a bit and see if you can feel any pressure buildup. It may at least give you an indication of whether or not you are bulding excessive crancace pressure. Hopefully it is just a PCV system problem, although of course that would just be too easy. I'd just hate to see you bring your car down to ramp and get charged $$$$. Try everything possible before going there; don't overlook the simple stuff and good luck. Perhaps i'll run into you at bald hill over the season. See you on the road! Good Luck!
:chevy
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Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 63
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From: RONKONKOMA NY
Re: Dipstick problem (Jloshotz)
Jloshotz
Thanks for the advice. Sounds like an easy enough test. I'll have to check it out in the morning. When do the Bald Hill gatherings start? I've only been there 3 or 4 times. :cheers:
Thanks for the advice. Sounds like an easy enough test. I'll have to check it out in the morning. When do the Bald Hill gatherings start? I've only been there 3 or 4 times. :cheers:
Burning Brakes
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,024
Likes: 0
From: Long Island New York
Re: Dipstick problem (LT4DRIVER)
Jloshotz
Thanks for the advice. Sounds like an easy enough test. I'll have to check it out in the morning. When do the Bald Hill gatherings start? I've only been there 3 or 4 times. :cheers:
Thanks for the advice. Sounds like an easy enough test. I'll have to check it out in the morning. When do the Bald Hill gatherings start? I've only been there 3 or 4 times. :cheers:
:chevy
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From: RONKONKOMA NY
Re: Dipstick problem (Jloshotz)
You are very welcome. Just seems like a simple and seemingly effective and cost free "trial test." Bald hill usually starts as soon as the weather breaks for good. Is your vette on the road? I swear I jinxed the weater two weeks ago when it was 60 degrees all week long by getting mine on the road. New toy, got way too overzealous. I told my buddy, "it'll start snowing like crazy as soon as i register the vette." Boy did i call that one. If you are driving yours in the morning like I am, be careful. Definitely NOT designed for this type of crappy weather; i'm sure you know all too well.
:chevy [/QUOTE]
I checked it out. No indication of pressure buildup. I rotated it 180 degrees again just to see if it has any effect. BTW I did drive this morning. It wasn't too icy though. I drive it everyday and everywhere. :thumbs:
