Ford Muscle Cars Tech Forum banner

Dipstick in timing cover question

13K views 5 replies 3 participants last post by  strtcar  
#1 ·
Hello and thanks in advance!

I have a built 289 that I am using to replace my carbed 302 that has a block oil dipstick. My timing cover off the 302 (standard water pump w/ mech fuel pump) does not have a dipstick hole.

Since the 289 does not have a block mount dipstick I need to use a timing cover style. Can I drill my timing cover and be done with it? If so, does anyone have a picture of the dipstick in timing cover? Do you know what size the hole is to drill?

I really appreciate it!
Scott
 
#2 ·
Yes you can drill the TC cover. I would remover the cover first to keep shavings out of the oil pan. Don't know the size of the hole. I do know you will have to tap the tube in the TC cover with a punch and hammer..It's a tight fit.
 
#3 ·
Thanks! I am taking it off the old 302 to clean up so i can do it on a bench. I made plans on doing the swap for this weekend, just installed my oil pump and pick up and noticed my new chrome pan didnt have a dipstick hole. I sure didnt want to wait another week on a timing cover to get here. I am going to go ahead a get a new water pump while it is apart I guess.

Thanks for the tip! I will use a punch now for sure.

Thanks again!