Wrong Dipstick C-1

[Mike B.]

I just received some items from GM Parts Direct. From the archives I thought that part number 3862730 was the correct oil dipstick for a 1961. But it is obviously wrong. I don't know of the length is right, but the top has a molded yellow plastic T-handle. I am now wondering if the corresponding tube, part number 3865664 is correct.

If anyone can shed some light on what these parts will fit please let me know. And although not appropriate for this board, if you need them, feel free to contact me. I'll ship them for a lot less than the gouging rate Parts Direct charges!

Thanks,
Mike

[Joe L.]

Re: Wrong Dipstick C-1

Mike-----

The correct SERVICE dipstick for a 1961 Corvette is GM #3846810. The original dipstick was GM #3739830. If I was the one that previously posted information that the 3862730 was applicable to 61 Corvettes, then that was in error. The 3862730 is applicable to 65-74 Corvettes with small block.

Also, if you are sure that the dipstick sent to you is a GM #3862730, then the handle configuration has changed. The original 3862730 handle was a loop-style. I have noticed that some of the GM SERVICE dipsticks have changed handle style WITHOUT A CHANGE IN PART NUMBER. This sometimes happens with parts in older SERVICE. One that I know changed quite awhile ago is the GM #3951576. As far as Corvettes go, it is applicable to 75-79 models but it was used in most other Chevrolets with small block beginning in 1969. Originally, this was a loop handle dipstick. It changed to a "yellow plastic t-handle" quite some time ago. The same thing may now have occurred with the 3862730.

The GM #3865664 tube is also applicable to 1965-74 Corvettes with small block. You require tube GM #3732488.

You don't have to worry about the handle being changed on the GM #3864810------it's now discontinued. However, the 3732488 tube is still available.

By the way, GM Parts Direct shipping and handling charges are not really a "gouge". The price that GM Parts Direct quotes for parts is DEALER COST. In other words, this is the price that they pay GM for the parts. Essentially, all of their profit as well as shipping and handling costs comes out of what folks regard as "shipping". I applaud them for their approach to pricing. I think that it's extremely upfront and honest.

[Mike B.]

Re: Wrong Dipstick C-1

Joe,

Well I sure made a mistake on both parts. Of course they were special order and non returnable. Before ordering I tried to contact their tech help but never got a reply.

The dipstick is #3862730 and does have a yellow T handle. So if I understand what you said, the dipstick is functionally ok for a 65-74 with a small block but because of the handle it seems that it is not correct looking for anything. And I did order the 3865644 tube.

I'll add the parts to the pile of future ebay fodder.

And in regards to GM Parts direct, I understand the need to charge high handling/shipping fees. In the end, no matter how it is sliced up, the price of the parts are still reasonable. That is unless they are the wrong ones!!!

Thanks for you help.

[Joe L.]

Re: Wrong Dipstick C-1

Mike-----

Providing that the dipstick is, in fact, a GM #3862730, it will be functionally fine for a 65-74 application. You should be able to confirm the dipstick part number pretty easily because, for this dipstick, the part number is usually embossed on the blade. If that's the number tha's there, yellow handle or not, it should be functionally right for 65-74 small block applications.