Broken dipstick tube

Any ideas on how to remove a broken dipstick tube from the block? It's broken off almost even, so there's nothing to grab. I tried a clothes hanger with a small hook...didn't work, just straightened out the hook. I really don't want to drop the oil pan if I can avoid it....Help!!

I had one of these..

I knocked it in and fished it out with a magnet through the drain hole..

not ideal... but it worked...

I had one as well, try to drive an awl (sharp pointed tool like an ice pick) between the block and the tube. If you're successful, it will fold in and you can get hold of it with needle nose pliers.

I have used an easyout to remove them. Once you can get it to turn it will loosen up. Then clamp a pair of vise-grips to the shank of the easyout and apply a steady pull as you turn the easyout. It has worked for me a couple of times.

Try a pair of surgical clamps with a long narrow nose. You might be able to apply enough pressure to pull it out without it slipping off.

If none of those work, consider pulling the dip stick tube out of the engine instead of pulling the pan.

kstyer said: If none of those work, consider pulling the dip stick tube out of the engine instead of pulling the pan.

????????????
You been drinkin' again Ken? Looked to me like all these suggestions were from the top, not through the pan.

Theres gotta be something in that OHIO water

Thanks for the tips guys. You too, Ken It's such a tight space there. I'll try the easyout if I can get to it. I have to feel just to get the dipstick back in. Driving it thru might be the best idea. It's just a matter of space...know what I mean, Ken?

I misread the post. I was thinking the dipstick was broken off in the tube, not the tube in the block.

Of course, that would have made my answer stupid. I hate it when I do that.

At least most of the water around here is okay. Most of it.

Perhaps I just need to go to bed. It will be okay in the morning.

Doc, are my meds ready?????

|UPDATED|11/9/2004 8:19:37 PM (AZT)|/UPDATED|