Dipstick accuracy is WRONG! Anyone else?

[mcaimh]

I changed the oil in my 2011 Ford V-10, carefully putting 7 quarts in with the filter change. After running it, on a level surface, and letting it sit overnight, it is about 7/8" LOW on the dipstick.

Do I have the wrong dipstick, or what? Anyone else had a problem with the newer V10 dipstick?

[Bob (WA0MQE)]

I can't say on the V10, but there's been discussion on this forum before about inaccurate dipsticks.

[CarlGeo]

The best approach is to calibrate the dip stick you have.

Next time you change oil just put the refill quantity in, less one quart.

Start the engine, let it run until warm, shut it off and let it set for at least one hour and then check the oil. At this point you know the level on the dip stick is one quart low. So you mark that point with a small file. Now you know where your one quart low mark is.

If you want to know where the full mark is, just add the final quart and run the engine until warm, shut it off for at least an hour and check the oil level. At this point it would be the full mark. Use the file to mark that point. Now you have a full mark and a one quart low mark.

It doesn't matter what dip stick you have because it is correct for your engine. This proceedure is required for all diesel pusher chassis coaches because there are no standard dip sticks for them.
Good Luck