Oil dip stick tube replacement

[Brigadoon]

Like some others here, my dip stick tube melted where it was too close to the exhaust. I ordered and received a new one.

For those of you who may have tackled this replacement, how do you remove the metal piece that sticks into the engine block? I've slit the plastic that's over the metal tube and removed the tube to get a better look at metal piece. An attempt to grab hold of the metal piece and remove it is not working so far.

[bluepill]

Yeah, dipstick tubes can get really stuck. I guess it's better than having them come loose, though. The standard way of dealing with them depends on how accessable they are. Clean the area well to get out any "gunk" that's helping to seal the tube, as well as keeping nasty bits out of the crankcase when the tube comes out. I try to get a needle-nosed visegrip solidly down inside the tube, and then carefully apply a twisting and rocking force to the tube while tapping the base near the block LIGHTLY with a small hammer or socket extension. Applying some heat (carefully-to avoid a fire) to expand and then spraying with a non-flammable brake cleaner to contract (Watch the fumes) during the twist and tap excercise can sometimes help. Patience is a must, you do not want to tear the tube if possible.

The last resort would be using a chisel to collapse the tube.

[Brigadoon]

Thanks for the reply. My concern is the tearing of the tube. I'll go slow and easy.

[Brigadoon]

bluepill,

Got the tube out in one piece. It was a pain but it's out.

I've got the new tube in about 3/4 of the way. Now it does not seem to want to seat. I've been using an open end wrench that just fits over the tube resting on the flange. Then I've been tapping on the wrench with a small hammer with light taps. Now it doesn't want to move. Any suggestions on how to seat the tube?

[Airtool]

I have used a pair of vice grips,that are made to grab damaged damaged brake line fittings. They are made so they have three points of contact.
The smallest size should clear the block and go around the tube at the setting shoulder,make them just tight enough to grip the tub not crush it.
Then use a wooden dowel to lightly tap the tub down into place working around the shoulder of the vice grips.
A tube made of plastic makes the job a real challenge. It helps to lube the tub before installing it.

Dick.