Engine oil level - diesel

[kapilamuni]

Hi,
Since recently, dipstick indicates confusing levels. In the first instance it shows level at minimum. Then I check it again, it shows max level. Sometimes, though the level is at maximum, in between dry spots seen without a continuous layer from end of dipstick to the level.
I'm worried as I could run below the min level.

 

[wammers]

Hi,
Since recently, dipstick indicates confusing levels. In the first instance it shows level at minimum. Then I check it again, it shows max level. Sometimes, though the level is at maximum, in between dry spots seen without a continuous layer from end of dipstick to the level.
I'm worried as I could run below the min level.

You are not dipping it correctly. Oil level should be checked with engine cold after starting engine and allowing oil lamp to go out then switch off. Then dip and top up to max. If there are dry spots between oil level and oil at max it is oil you are picking up from side of dipstick tube. Disregard that. Oil should be continuous on dip stick.

 

[kapilamuni]

I also thought that it's not dipped in fully. So when checking I push it down first.
The dry spots are in between the shown level and end of dipstick.
I used to check it before starting the engine when cold. As you say, start and shut down the engine after the oil light, means we are checking the the remaining oil level after circulation, is it?

 

[Grrrrrr]

Odd, mine never seems to vary. It does have a slight downhill slope where I usually park it if that makes any difference. Doesn't usuallyneed topping up between changes.

 

[wammers]

I also thought that it's not dipped in fully. So when checking I push it down first.
The dry spots are in between the shown level and end of dipstick.
I used to check it before starting the engine when cold. As you say, start and shut down the engine after the oil light, means we are checking the the remaining oil level after circulation, is it?

Yes that is how it should be done.

 

[kapilamuni]

I check oil level once a month like. Since this observation came up, I tend to do it more frequently.