Trouble getting accurate oil level readings
 

I continue to have a tough time knowing if I have the right amount of oil in my 82 Targa. The dipstick never seems to clearly show the oil level, no matter how flat a surface I am on or how long the engine has been off or on. The oil pressure gauge works, and so does the oil level gauge. I notice that when the oil level gauge shows full (needle all the way up into the white), the dipstick still doesn't really show the right oil level. I tend to overfill the oil since I am afraid I don't have enough. What is the danger if there is too much oil in the car? If any? Why doesn't the dipstick read more clearly?

There is a very specific method for checking the oil. Are you checking the oil with the car running, up to operating temp and on a level surface? That is the only way to get an accurate reading.

Once you get the procedure down, you'll have lots of fun with the kids at the gas pumps, as you check your oil with the engine idling. ;)

There are a ton of threads here on how to do it but the guys above will get you on the right track for now. Follow their warm/running advice and fill until the oil is 1/2 way between the marks on the stick.

quote: " What is the danger if there is too much oil in the car? If any? Why doesn't the dipstick read more clearly?"

Too much oil can get sucked into the air intake. A messy smoky mess. A quart or so down is no biggy since you're carrying over 12 quarts in the system anyway.

Keep shirt tails and your willie away from the spinning A/C pulley.

Do not check oil of running 911 in the nude. NOW you tell me.

Oil Reading
 

Thanks all...I will keep trying and remember to keep my clothes on

On a serious note....check to see that you have the proper dip stick for your model car....there've been at least two different versions.

PET or other parts souces should be able to tell you the proper part number...it's also on the dipstick.

Wil