Engine Oil Dipstick. HELP!!!

[ITSANSS]

New, never been run, remanufactured 350 engine.  Stock except for cylinder overbore.

Dipstick from old Goodwrench 350 engine fits the new one, but does not read the oil level correctly.  Bought an aftermarket chrome one and it doesn't fit in the hole in the block by a long shot.  Bought yet another aftermarket chrome dipstick (different from the first, of course) and it almost fits the block, but not quite.

Aren't all small block Chevrolet's the same?  Also, why would my original dipstick, that fits, not read the oil level correctly?  I've got five quarts in it and it sat overnight before I thought I'd check it the next day.  So, all the oil should be down in the pan after sitting a day...

What gives?  Anyone have a similar issue before?

Thanks

[VileZambonie]

No they are not all the same. What makes you think it's reading incorrectly? On a new engine with a stock pan expect 6+ quarts initially.

[ITSANSS]

I never knew that dipsticks varied between years.  Interesting...

Why 6+ quarts initially?  This engine hasn't been started yet.  I can see it burning some until the rings are seated, etc....?

I think it's not showing right because the dipstick (one out of original engine) showed just barely reading on the tip of the dipstick with five quarts in the pan.

I ground the second aftermarket chrome dipstick since it didn't need much to be able to fit.  Got it to fit with a little grinding, but it also doesn't read "FULL".  It's on the right track, however.  It showed to right around the "ADD" mark.

I see on the Advance Auto Parts website that they have a Universal oil dipstick.  I may get that as it can be adjusted as needed.  Also, I see a Lokar flexible dipstick on Advance's website.  I don't know whether that one is just flexible for tight spots or it can be adjusted for height, too.  It's expensive!   

Man, I'll be glad when this pick-up is done....physically, mentally, and, most importantly, financially.

Thanks

[VileZambonie]

If it's the same block and pan as you had then go by the correct dipstick.

[ITSANSS]

It's a different engine entirely.  Long block from Advance Auto.  It didn't come with a dipstick, so I used the one from the old engine.  You're sayin' to use that one?

Thanks

[VileZambonie]

Is it the same style block and oil pan? If so then yes.

[ITSANSS]

I don't see why they wouldn't be.  I'll do a closer inspection tomorrow.  Casting numbers, etc.

So, if they are same style blocks and pans, why would the dipstick not show correct?  That's still makin' me scratch my head...

Thanks again, man

[VileZambonie]

make sure the dipstick tube is fully seated and go with the stick reading. Prime the system and keep checking it. If you see a difference between the old engine and new engine that's a different story.