While not a big deal, the 58 block I'm assembling has a front dipstick hole (can't use since generator is in the way), and was wondering about the traditional method of plugging it (tap & bolt, I assume?). Luckily, I also noticed (finally) that the tube casting at the normal T-Bird location hadn't actually been drilled through, before I installed the pan & gasket.

6 VOLTS/POS. GRD. NW INDIANA

Dan, all blocks have provision for dipstick in either location. Just move the 1/2" plug from one hole to the other.

http://ford-y-block.com 

20 miles east of San Diego, 20 miles north of Mexico

Plugs for the hole are available at a good parts store or machine shop.

54 Victoria 312;  48 Ford Conv 302, 56 Bird 312
Forever Ford
Midland Park, NJ

The front hole in the 58 block shows evidence of machining. The other was likely plugged from inside (concave side in), and the outer-most portion of the hole (where the tube fits) exhibits a VERY rough, extremely irregular casting surface. Looks like the block was pre-assigned at the factory for a specific dipstick location? Did ANY 58 vehicles use the typical T-Bird location, I wonder?

The plugged hole will likely need some cleanup/drilling for a proper tube fit.

6 VOLTS/POS. GRD. NW INDIANA

Is the hole clean? If not, could be just crud

54 Victoria 312;  48 Ford Conv 302, 56 Bird 312
Forever Ford
Midland Park, NJ

Can't really tell, as access is currently restricted due to engine stand mount. If both holes WERE routinely machined, then it must be crud, which would certainly simplify things.

6 VOLTS/POS. GRD. NW INDIANA

I have found trucks generally have the dip stick in the front, while autos have them on the side. some are threaded while others have a press fit like a small freeze plug

There's only one place where the dipstick can go into the block on all the engines I have - just below the mounting boss on the left side. The other possibility is in the timing cover.

Were some blocks machined with 2 possible locations?


Lawrenceville, GA

As John mentions above, all blocks have the provision in either location, one on the block and one on the timing cover. (Truck dipsticks in side of block, Cars in Timing cover) The hole not being used is plugged witha tiny freeze plug. remove the plug and install it in the hole you do not intend to use.

Make sure your dipstick matches for the location or you will get a false reading of the oil level.

55 Vicky & customline

58 Rack Dump, 55 F350 yard truck, 57 F100

59 & 61 P 400's, 58 F100 custom cab, 69 F100, 79 F150, 82 F600 ramp truck, 90 mustang conv 7 up, 94 Mustang, Should I continue?

Fish around down there near where the hole should be. Bound to be crud.

My wife just read this - you don't want to know what she said!!

Anyhow, all the y blocks I have ever seen have two locations. One on the passenger side about the middle of the block just above the oil pan, and the other one at the front passenger side of the block just aft of the timing cover...

Daniel Jessup

Lancaster, California

aka "The Hot Rod Reverend"
check out the 1955 Ford Fairlane build at www.hotrodreverend.com