Oil Gauage Level

[mpi115]

hey Guys, Newer 911 owner here looking for your insights. When I run my 78 SC the oil level shows low near the red zone, but when stopped and idling she reads up into middle of gauge. Normal ? Thanks

[bhmkv]

Had same question. I've read you only read this gauge when stopped on a flat surface. Car should be at idle and motor warmed up. Should read in middle. Please correct me if wrong. Hope this helps.

[timmy2]

Normal. Also don't depend in the gauge. Measure oil level at full operating temperature with engine idling. Most people run between 1/2 to 3/4 on the dipstick.

[bhmkv]

Also always check the dipstick before long rides.

[dyount]

^^ + 1 on that one.

Mine reads in the red until warm up and continues to climb to full when warm. Seems the "idiot" gauge works differently for everyone. Mine is accurate but no better accuracy than pulling the stick when warm is truly the only guarantee.

[Jesse16]

With my 87, the gauge is accurate to the stick reading but neither shows any oil unless the engine is fully warm and idling. Sometimes "warm" is hard to come by in cold weather. You could replace the gauge if its original. Just keep pouring oil in every 1000 miles or so like clockwork. I even put a "future" note in my gas log that it's time at 1000 mile intervals, which is every 3 or so fill-ups.

[theiceman]

Originally Posted by Jesse16

With my 87, the gauge is accurate to the stick reading but neither shows any oil unless the engine is fully warm and idling. Sometimes "warm" is hard to come by in cold weather. You could replace the gauge if its original. Just keep pouring oil in every 1000 miles or so like clockwork. I even put a "future" note in my gas log that it's time at 1000 mile intervals, which is every 3 or so fill-ups.

They all work the same way and you guys have it correct. Warmed up on level ground while idling. I totally trust my guage and use it to top off after an oil change by looking through the rear window. You have to know your car to do this though and if in doubt as mentioned use the dipstick. Its the last best test.

By the time Mine drops to the red on guage, on the stick it is at the bottom line ... for me that is right on 3,000 miles so i change the oil then as i know it will all fit in my oil pan