Broken dipstick handle

speed · Postby **speed** » Tue Mar 17, 2015 6:03 pm

Just buy a new one. Done

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97 MXV · Postby **97 MXV** » Thu Mar 19, 2015 11:28 pm

sailaholic wrote:Definitely a mx5 specialist. most Mazda dipsticks of that era look the same but have different markings dependent on which engine they were fitted to and FWD vs RWD. Incorrect dipstick could cause terminal engine failure!

The dipstick is a very important condition monitoring tool. Not only ensure it is the right one but also know how to use it properly.

Check both sides of the dipstick at once....Why ?
One side of the dipstick might pick up oil from the dipstick tube so will not reflect the sump level.
The other side of the dipstick then won't pick up oil from the dipstick tube so will reflect the sump level.

To confirm whether this would be an issue with the dipstick tool, extensive track testing was undertaken.
The testing proved beyond all doubt it is in fact an issue. The volume of the engine clatter coming from the main bearings was used to measure results.
Listen carefully to this test video taken following repeated checks of only one side of the dipstick.

Postby **Okibi** » Thu Mar 19, 2015 11:59 pm

Apparently the 99/00 Californian dipstick and tube was better than the rest.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B1P63n ... 4YTFk/view

Postby **Okibi** » Fri Mar 20, 2015 12:04 am

Some even drill their dipstick to make it easier to read

Silvia · Postby **Silvia** » Fri Mar 20, 2015 9:01 am

I see this is a very different dipstick to my model 2002. Mine is a thin steel rod that is flattened near the bottom for the reading zone. It is so rigid several tries are needed to get it back down into the tube and it rubs the tube sides on exit , making oil level readings doubtful. :roll:

So it needs to be done several times (checking both sides) and no doubt this accelerates the breaking time of the handle.

project.r.racing · Postby **project.r.racing** » Fri Mar 20, 2015 10:08 am

the dipstick with the holes drill in it is from a MZR engine. dunno why you need to drill holes in it. the 2 lines are quite visable. i've never had a issue reading mine.

as for breaking. they are plastic, the sit right next to the hottest part of the car, and are up to 20+ years old. stuff breaks. any other part of you car been replaced in the last 20 tears?

sailaholic · Postby **sailaholic** » Fri Mar 20, 2015 1:06 pm

I have trouble seeing the oil on my dipstick when new at time due to it being so pale.

Holes would show the colour of the oil easier but only at those points.

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