I am finally getting ready to start up my LS/4L80E swap! One of the last things on the list is the dipstick. I bought a lokar knock off braided dipstick as I couldn't get anything else to clear and it seems way off. As per Jake's performance, I measured the proper level with the pan off and marked it on the dipstick. What is the best way to Mark the dipstick? I'm worried that the mark I put on there was sharpie will come off as soon as it gets some transmission fluid on it.

I also noted that despite there being two O-rings, it's really loose where the dipstick goes into the transmission. Is there supposed to be a hold down or anything like that? Should I just put some beefier O-rings on there or just suck it up and spring for the lokar piece? Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated.

Here's a picture of the dipstick where I marked it to the correct level, and where it goes into the transmission.

https://imgur.com/a/giJqsrK

 

Have you ever called Jake's to see if they have a custom oem style dipstick for your car? Lokar dipsticks are disappointing in my opinion.
For a "bandaid" you can install beefier Orings

 

I have not but I doubt they have one. It's installed in a 65 nova. Clearance is pretty tight which is why I went braided

 

I would mark it with a marker first then take it out and make a mark with a cutting tool so it’s always there. Just a little notch that’s all

 

That's a great idea!

 

The dipstick blade should be adjustable with 2 allen wrench plugs in the pull handle of the dipstick.

On mine I had to see where the full mark was related to the transmission and loosen the two screws to allow the blade to slide up into the handle till the engraved mark on the dipstick was at the right spot. had my dad hold the handle seated while I tapped on it from the bottom. I used a good punch to put a mark on the blade against the handle so I could make sure it doesn't move Once I'm happy the blade is getting sleeve lock locktight on it...

 

I would not cut into steel stranded cable. it will naturally want to unravel from its self once 1 or more strands have been severed.

 

I don't know how you would mark it but I wouldn't cut into that cable. You maybe be able to tape it off and use epoxy to make a line on the cable.

 

Unless I misread something, He suggested marking the end of the dipstick and then notching it (the flat metal piece)....not the cable.

 

isn’t the end not strands and a solid piece of metal? That has an indicator on it for oil level

 

I would do what pdx mention first if this particular stick is adjustable if not then notch it like I said as long as it’s a solid metal piece on the end and you are not cutting cable

 

the picture he posted shows he has marked the cable part of the dipstick with black marker

 

It does look like it is adjustable at the top. I had no idea. I will install thicker o rings and adjust the dipstick to match the right level

 

In the pic he marked the dipstick with a marker on the cable part of the stick.