1970 383 Dipstick

[moreparts]

Does the dipstick for a '70 383 Magnum have the words "CHECK OIL - THIS SIDE UP" stamped on the dipstick?  I've seen the same style with and without that written.  Also what color do the original handles have?  I've seen both black, unpainted, and orange with the later being a little more common, but that may be due to the restorers preference.

[pschlosser]

The dipsticks are the same on the 383 and 440.  

In principle, it doesn't matter "which side is up" but the gauge may only be inscribed on one side of the indicator.  

most of the "definitely original" dipsticks I've seen had slightly rusty or bare metal patina'd handles, so I vote they (and the tube) were unpainted.

That said, I'm sure many get painted when the blocks get painted during a rebuild.  I don't think show judges deduct points for painted dipstick tubes.

[moreparts]

In principle, it doesn't matter "which side is up" but the gauge may only be inscribed on one side of the indicator. 

All good info.  Thanks for that.  And to clarify, are you saying you've seen '70 dipsticks both with and without the writing inscription for a '70?  I have one of each and I'm just trying to figure out which is more appropriate.

[pschlosser]

In principle, it doesn't matter "which side is up" but the gauge may only be inscribed on one side of the indicator. 

All good info.  Thanks for that.  And to clarify, are you saying you've seen '70 dipsticks both with and without the writing inscription for a '70?  I have one of each and I'm just trying to figure out which is more appropriate.

I'm not commenting at all on the inscription.  But from memory, there was no text I recall seeing.  Though there may be text referring to FULL and/or ADD.

later model dipstick tubes have that stuff, so my guess, your dipstick tube may not be OEM, but I don't think anyone will care.  presuming it looks OEM on the handle.

[moreparts]

Thanks for the info, pschlosser.  I'll wait to see if anyone else has the writing on their dipsticks as well.

[EV2RTSE]

Bare metal tube and painted handle is what I've always understood to be correct. This is a photo of that really high scoring white 440 R/T restored by the late Dave Walden of ECS Auto.

[moreparts]

Interesting pic!  I don't think I've ever noticed a dipstick painted like that.

[Mopar5]

Bare metal tube and painted handle is what I've always understood to be correct. This is a photo of that really high scoring white 440 R/T restored by the late Dave Walden of ECS Auto.

Beautiful!