Oil dipstick dimension - California 1100 EV - 2001

[zo1100]

Hi guys!
I just bought my first Moto Guzzi, a California 1100 from 2001.
The previous owner replaced the original dipstick with a thermometer type. However this one doesn't have any markings on it.
So, can somebody measure the original dipstick and the marks for min and max? From the original PN I can see that it should be 140mm, but I cannot figure out the length from the threads to min and max.

Thanks in advance!
Cheers!

[pehayes]

Someone will chime in with a dimension or I will tomorrow.
If it were me, I would drain the oil into a clean container.  Measure and install TWO quarts.  Insert your dipstick and then use a file to scratch mark around the stem.  Then install a THIRD quart and re-mark the stick again.  You're going to have to mark the stick when someone gives you a dimension.  Why not do it accurately for your bike and your current oil supply?

Patrick Hayes
Fremont CA

[zo1100]

This is what I wanted to avoid, to drain the oil, then put it back in. And I still won't know what's the maximum level. Not to say that it will still remain some oil that didn't come out on the drain hole.
I find it best to measure the original.

Cheers!

[Tom H]

When was the oil changed last? Maybe it's time for an oil and filter change?

You bike takes 3ltr of oil WITH a filter change. On this side of the pond we just put in 3qts with a filter change. With 3ltr, sometimes they will spit up oil through the breather system. 3qts and the breather system is happy as well as the engine.

If you get the dimensions for the marks, the dipstick IS SCREWED IN fully to get the correct measurement.

If it were me and the last oil change has been a while, I would change it and put 3 QUARTS in with a new filter and mark the dip stick. Fill filter from 1 quart, then install oil pan. Then use the remainder of that quart and 1 more full quart and mark the dip stick, that would be your low mark. Add 1 more quart and mark the dip stick, that would be your full mark.

Hope this helps,
Tom

[nc43bsa]

Weren't the OEM dipsticks notoriously inaccurate?

[zo1100]

The last oil change was about 2000km ago, so it's not time to change it yet.
The manual says the oil should be checked without screwing in the dipstick. Sorry, you're right. I misunderstood the manual "Refit the cap with dipstick into its hole
without tightening"
Probably I'll do this on the next oil change as you suggested, but meanwhile I wanted to check the oil level once in a while, that's why I asked for dimensions.

[Tom H]

On my '70's Eldo and Ambo, you just rested the dip stick in the hole, some say to turn it in 1 turn.

My '04 EV, the dip stick is fully screwed in, but not tightened, just snug.

Then my BMW is?? and my HD is??? Why can't they be all the same??? Aarrgghh!

Also, the bike needs to be upright or on the center stand to get the correct reading on the dip stick. With my '70's and 3 qts, on center stand is about half way between the marks. On side stand the level is at the full mark.

Tom

[zo1100]

Yes, well it's kind of obvious that it should be leveled to check the oil.
On my Honda (NC700X) the dipstick shouldn't be screwed in to check the oil level.
Anyway, it is how it is. I bought the Guzzi because it's an odd bike with a lot of engineering innovations and not so common design things.

[pehayes]

As I have two 98EV, I used my lathe to turn up this temporary shop dipstick.  No threads at all, so it bottoms out against the case.  I installed exactly three QUARTS of oil and marked a triple line on the shaft.  I installed slightly more oil to equal three LITERS total and marked a single line on the shaft.  Take your pick.  You can see the measured dimensions.  YMMV.

Patrick Hayes
Fremont CA








bartow hospital

[zo1100]

Thank you all for the info.
I'll do the same on the next oil change.
Cheers!

[tumuli stump jumper]

Pehays has it.

Here is my 01 EV dip.

[guzzisteve]

AND those marks are for "Screwed all the way IN" reading. Just so you know. Don't be confused, it's only 4:39pm yet.

[pehayes]

AND those marks are for "Screwed all the way IN"

I seem to recall a VERY early Guzzi owners manual which required that the dipstick be "... screwed up completely."  Just sayin.

Patrick Hayes
Fremont CA

[zo1100]

Pehays has it.

Here is my 01 EV dip.

Thanks. It will be good for reference, then on the next oil change I'll do as pehays suggested.

Cheers!