Re: [DML] The dipstick broke inside the tube.

[Gus Schlachter <gus@xxxx>]

Errr, I am being dense here? It seems to me that a piece of dipstick can be possibly be
removed through the drain plug.

It might still be neccessary to pull the pan, but I'd at least try to get the fragment
out through the drain plug first. Of course, I would spend 5 hours trying to avoid a
2-hour oil pan R&R, but that's just me. :-)

Most auto parts stores have the "magnet on a stick" that could reach in there are and
get the dipstick piece. You can also try using a powerful magnet on the outside of the
pan to drag the fragment to the drain hole. (Try getting the magnets out of a dead hard
drive...they are CRAZY powerful.)


Gus Schlachter
VIN# 4695
Austin, TX


> > I have talked to some people and there should be no danger in
> > starting the engine. But of course you don't want a piece of metal
> > flying around in there.
> > So I'll have to empty the "oil-sump" (dunno the word in english,
> > having the mother-tounge of the swedish-chef, hope you know that I'm
> > talking about), trickle the oil and use a magnet to see if I can find
> > it. Apparently the plug doesn't come with a magnet as standard in
> > this engine for those who wondered.
> > Of course I'll also have to change the oil pan gasket while I'm down
> > there.