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Checking the oil

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2011 10:59 am
by Jayster
Hello all,

When checking the oil level, I have heard that I should first start the engine and leave it running for a few minutes and then turn the engine off and take the reading from the dipstick. Is this correct as whenever I check the oil level it seems to look exactly the same as the previous time, and the last thing I want is for the oil to run dry!

Would appreciate any help you might be able to offer.

Many thanks,
Jason

Re: Checking the oil

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2011 11:54 am
by haydn callow
What you are doing is fine.......but running the engine can make the dipstick hard to read.

I just check it cold and this makes it easy to see level.

No differance in levels is good....you are not burning/leaking oil

Re: Checking the oil

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2011 11:58 am
by rita
Hi,
Check it cold,or after the engine has stopped for about 10/15 mins.If you check it as soon as the engine has stopped there will be a lot of oil on the crank case not in the sump.

Cheers.
.

Re: Checking the oil

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2011 12:11 pm
by Jayster
Thanks, guys. Really appreciate it.

Re: Checking the oil

Posted: Wed Jan 19, 2011 3:29 pm
by David Edwards
Yep always been taught to do it first thing inthe morning after the bongo has been standing overnight and all the oil has settled, same goes for tyre pressures, do it when cold for a true reading.