120inna55

I'm posting in the newb section, even though I've owned my 98 Trans Am since I bought it new in 98.

However, the question sounds newbie:

When I check the oil, the oil adheres at the little twist at the end of the stick, just below the "operating range". Then there's a tiny bit of oil that adheres all along the edge of the stick a good 4" on up the stick, obviously well above the operating range. Should I be going by the tiny bit that's adhering to the edge of the stick or should I go by the level that has full coverage of the stick?

I check it on a cold car after it's been sitting overnight. I'm very careful and slow when inserting the dipstick. I remove it, wipe it with a paper towel, then I reinsert it and check it.

The car "uses" a little bit of oil, but I certainly don't want to overfill it.

topgun542

iTrader: (6)

I know on my silverado theres some cross hatching on the dipstick. and you kinda have to get it in the right light and youll see where the oil isnt just sticking to one side but a line... it sounds complicated but look at it in good light and you will see the line. cause i know if i just went with the single line of oil i would have wayyyy to much oil in there.

xxrillixx

iTrader: (118)

Your doing it right. Dont read the area that isnt completely submerged (the 4" your talking about) Read the area where it covers the whole stick.

Interesting tidbit, bottom of hatching to the top is 1qt.

120inna55

Thanks gentlemen.

FiredUpZ28

Let the car sit for 10-15 min if you want a true reading. (Per GM specs)

120inna55

You must have missed this part of my post.

FiredUpZ28

Nope I read it. Lotta people let it sit over night, I'm just pointing out that its overkill thats all :-)

120inna55

Gotcha. Yeah, I figured 15-20 min after shutting off the engine would be sufficient. It's just that checking in the morning before I start it up is the most convenient.

thatoneguybriz

iTrader: (2)

+1 for cross hatch being equal to one quart variation..