View Poll Results: How do you check your oil?
use the dipstick
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79
64.23%
use gauge at operating temperature
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43
34.96%
Don't check it
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1
0.81%
Leave it to the experts
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0
0%
Voters: 123. You may not vote on this poll
How do you check your oil?
#17
Rennlist Member
![Default](https://rennlist.com/forums/images/icons/icon1.gif)
When doing an oil change, I just add 10+ liters and then after running the engine to operating temperature, top up till the gauge reads at the 3 o'clock position.
Checking the dipstick yesterday, the oil indicated 1/2" from the top of the twisted zone (upper end) of the dipstick. That equated to an oil level gauge reading at the 2 o'clock position.
Checking the dipstick yesterday, the oil indicated 1/2" from the top of the twisted zone (upper end) of the dipstick. That equated to an oil level gauge reading at the 2 o'clock position.
#18
Rennlist Member
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My guage usually sits at the top of the red even when the dipstick shows 1/2 qt down. I have been advised that 1/2 qt down is where it should be as if it is filled, it will quickly drop to 1/2 full then stabilize.
One day - a hot day with the temp guage at about 9 oclock - the oil level guage went to about the 3 o'clock position, but never since, even with the oil temp at 9 oclock.
One day - a hot day with the temp guage at about 9 oclock - the oil level guage went to about the 3 o'clock position, but never since, even with the oil temp at 9 oclock.
#19
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Interesting varying opinions here. I've had my car for just under 1 year now. A fellow Rennlist member taught me early on to use and trust the gauge. My eyes suck and I can't read the dipstick to save my life. Regardless, I know my gauge is good so:
1) make sure oil is well up to temp
2) slowly, very slowly add oil while checking gauge. The gauge slowly begins to rise.
3) when the gauge registers halfway (3 oclock), stop adding oil.
Works for me every time. Again, I am confident that my gauge is good.
I will tell you, when I was first given this instruction, I was surprised, as so many of you advise against use of the gauge and state, use the dipstick, forget the gauge.
I will continue to use the gauge as instructed by my reliable Rennlist friend. It works for me.
1) make sure oil is well up to temp
2) slowly, very slowly add oil while checking gauge. The gauge slowly begins to rise.
3) when the gauge registers halfway (3 oclock), stop adding oil.
Works for me every time. Again, I am confident that my gauge is good.
I will tell you, when I was first given this instruction, I was surprised, as so many of you advise against use of the gauge and state, use the dipstick, forget the gauge.
I will continue to use the gauge as instructed by my reliable Rennlist friend. It works for me.