Checking oil level

Swift101 · Apr 16, 2015

Hey Everyone,

I recently started using paper towel when checking my oil level but yesterday I noticed a small fiber got stuck to the end of the dip stick. I was able to get it off but it's possible when I checked my oil previously a small fiber could have gotten it's way into my engine.

I will be using regular rags/towels from now on. Is there anything to worry about, the filter should catch any contaminants right?

-Thanks

dlundblad · Apr 16, 2015

You'll be fine.

You should see the towels shops use to check oil.

Quattro Pete · Apr 16, 2015

Originally Posted By: Swift101
Is there anything to worry about

Yes, your OCD.

Swift101 · Apr 16, 2015

Originally Posted By: Quattro Pete
Originally Posted By: Swift101
Is there anything to worry about

Yes, your OCD.

Hahaha, I have to admit that's true.

CourierDriver · Apr 16, 2015

Look at it this way, that tid bit of a paper towel is circling your engine, polishing your bearings, rods, rings and your crankcase, sounds good to me.

CT8 · Apr 16, 2015

Remove the burr from the end of the dipstick.

CourierDriver · Apr 16, 2015

Originally Posted By: CT8
Remove the burr from the end of the dipstick.
now that was good.

CT8 · Apr 16, 2015

Originally Posted By: CourierDriver
Originally Posted By: CT8
Remove the burr from the end of the dipstick.
now that was good.
Thank you.

Whimsey · Apr 16, 2015

I use paper towels and always inspect the dipstick for paper before I reinsert it. If I find any paper towel on it I remove it with my fingers

. 40 years later I've not had any engine failures

.

Whimsey

Falken · Apr 16, 2015

It should get trapped in the Oil Filter.

If you use a Purolator oil filter it might help plug any tears in it. Possibly.

jaynissan12 · Apr 16, 2015

I wouldn't worry about it, more junk than that gets in the oil over an OCI. Gotta remember that most filters are cellulose fiber as well, but that little bit of paper towel would break apart more than likely so no biggie.

CELICA_XX · Apr 16, 2015

Yeah, I always check the dipstick when I reinsert it. Even shop towels will sometimes snag fibers just like the paper towels.

Originally Posted By: Falken
If you use a Purolator oil filter it might help plug any tears in it. Possibly.

haha

OneEyeJack · Apr 16, 2015

I hope you're not leaving the opening at the dipstick tube for the dipstick uncovered and open to ambient air contamination while your checking the oil level on the dipstick. During the time you're processing the dipstick at the workbench decontamination station before preparing to reinsert the dipstick into the dipstick tube you could be introducing wear particles into the system. Just imagine the damage that could be done if several particles migrated into your engine. One can't be too careful when executing a procedure like checking the oil level.

OtisBlkR1 · Apr 16, 2015

This situation may call for a UOA...

Quattro Pete · Apr 16, 2015

Originally Posted By: OtisBlkR1
This situation may call for a UOA...

Don't waste your money. The car is now damaged goods and needs to be sold ASAP.

OtisBlkR1 · Apr 16, 2015

Originally Posted By: Quattro Pete
Originally Posted By: OtisBlkR1
This situation may call for a UOA...

Don't waste your money. The car is now damaged goods and needs to be sold ASAP.

GenesisGuy70 · Apr 16, 2015

Originally Posted By: OtisBlkR1
Originally Posted By: Quattro Pete
Originally Posted By: OtisBlkR1
This situation may call for a UOA...

Don't waste your money. The car is now damaged goods and needs to be sold ASAP.

Swift101 · Apr 16, 2015

Originally Posted By: Quattro Pete
Originally Posted By: OtisBlkR1
This situation may call for a UOA...

Don't waste your money. The car is now damaged goods and needs to be sold ASAP.

On my way now to trade it in!

I hope they don't find that particle while appraising my car. Could easily knock 90% off the trade in value.

Bill_G · Apr 16, 2015

Originally Posted By: OneEyeJack
I hope you're not leaving the opening at the dipstick tube for the dipstick uncovered and open to ambient air contamination while your checking the oil level on the dipstick. During the time you're processing the dipstick at the workbench decontamination station before preparing to reinsert the dipstick into the dipstick tube you could be introducing wear particles into the system. Just imagine the damage that could be done if several particles migrated into your engine. One can't be too careful when executing a procedure like checking the oil level.

Forget all this - just use a microfiber towel - then after you check the oil you can quick detail your car - two birds with one stone.

howie2092 · Apr 16, 2015

I guess using old pit-stained t-shirts is out too.

What would happen if sweat particles get into the sump?

Checking oil level

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