One of the issues when trying to build a “traditional” car is finding cool looking components that fit the style. The market is limited when it comes to traditional parts, such as oil and transmission dipsticks. There really aren’t a lot of options out there. Lokar products are nice, but they don’t necessarily lend well to the traditional look. So what other options do you have?

How about cleaning up the dipstick by modifying it yourself? Capp’s Hot Rods is currently working on a traditional chopped and channeled Ford 5 Window Coupe. The drivetrain is an early 60’s 401 ci Buick Nailhead, backed by a M-20 4 speed. But, the dipstick is extremely long and uncool. We had an aluminum knob left over from another project… so we decided to modify the current dipstick and add the knob. Follow along and see how we did it.

In this photo, we’ve already cut the dipstick to the desired height:

Capp's Oil Dipstick 1

Here you’ll see the cut end of the dipstick, where we’ll attach the aluminum knob:

Capp's Oil Dipstick 2

Now, here’s a picture of the knob, with the bolt that we’ll use to attach it to the dipstick:

Capp's Oil Dipstick 3

We cut the head off the bolt, and then used a hacksaw to create a slot to receive the end of the dipstick:

Capp's Oil Dipstick 4

Here you’ll see the pre-fit assembly:

Capp's Oil Dipstick 5

We then removed the knob and welded the slotted stud to the dipstick:

Capp's Oil Dipstick 6

And here’s the final assembly, installed in the motor:

Capp's Oil Dipstick 7

It’s a clean and simple installation that retains an old school look. It’s also the sort of project that even a novice gearhead could complete. Thanks for following along, and remember to contact us at Capp’s Hot Rods for any parts or services you need. We perform simple repairs to complete builds, and we specialize in wiring!

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With over 40 years of combined restoration experience, Capp’s Hot Rods rebuilds and restores Model As, Deuces, ’33s and up, classic cars of all makes and models, and muscle cars.  Located in Woodland Hills, California, Capp’s specializes in electrical wiring services, from repairs to complete harness installations.  Visit their website or call 818-974-7530 for more information, or to schedule an appointment for your classic car.  You can also find the Capp’s team at the Pomona Swap Meet on Road 22, Spaces 22, 24 and 26.