Dipstick reading

[Fred Cook]

My dipstick has factory reading marks on one side and another set marks on the other side. The factory reading marks reflect a higher oil capacity than the other side. Which side am I supposed to read for the proper level of oil in my motor?

[Steve Huber Co-Admin]

Fred,
Don't use the factory side. Since there are a number of options for the dipstick "port" going into the crankcase, the factory markings are not necessarily correct. The non-factory marks are probably where a PO checked the actual level following an oil change. You may want to verify next time the oil is changed.
Steve

[Fred Cook]

Ok… Dipstick reads above the non factory side “Full” mark but below the factory side “Full” mark. I think I may have overfilled it by 2 or 3 quarts. Do you think I should drain some out?

[Fred Brooks]

    Fred,
Have you ever had Dave Atherton run a computer printout of your engine build based on the engine serial number? That will tell you what size the oil pan and original capacity was. Then on the next oil change you can verify the dip stick markings. Based on what Steve said, I would agree that someone has already done that and re-calibrated the dip stick accordingly. Fred

[Steve Huber Co-Admin]

Fred,
Verify the coach is level to be sure you are getting an accurate reading. How many miles or how long till your next scheduled  PM?
A qt or 2 over isn't something I'd worry about but if you just changed it, I'd probably drain a qt or 2 out. Was it low and you added some or was this just after a PM? If the latter, ow many gallons were put in?
Steve