Dipstick

[Glaserbeam]

I switched to a chrome dipstick, and the marks are at slightly different locations than on the stock plain steel dipstick. Can anyone tell me how far from the bottom the full line is on a stock dipstick so I can transfer that measurement to the chrome one? Many thanks.

[Jess from VA]

Just get the oil where you want it on the OE dipstick (close to center of two marks).

Then check it with your aftermarket dip and drag a file across the oil level mark on it.

I have Tel-Tru oil temp dips on both bikes, and they have an oil line which is untrustworthy, so I only use my OE sticks to check oil.

But if you put in 3.9 to 4 quarts of oil (at oil change), you really don't ever need to check it anyway.   

[Glaserbeam]

Thanks Jess, but the problem is I got rid of the OE dipstick a few years ago. I know the bike doesn't use much oil, but I like to check it between changes anyway.

[Jess from VA]

Thanks Jess, but the problem is I got rid of the OE dipstick a few years ago. I know the bike doesn't use much oil, but I like to check it between changes anyway.

Well, you can probably find an OE dipstick on Ebay or motorcycle salvage yard.  While 1500 Goldwings were made for some 12 years (?), I don't know if they used the same dipstick.

I have no idea if a new one can be ordered.

Or maybe you have a Valk rider somewhere near you, you could hook up and use his.

Or you do an oil change and use the new level to mark yours.  There's old threads on here saying the Valk will take 4qts (vrs the manual 3.9) if you do a change with the bike smoking hot, lean it over on the drain pan and maybe bump the starter (but not start).  Of course with a filter change too.

[Jack B]

If you find a original dipstick, just compare the lines to your aftermarket, take a hacksaw blade and make your own marks

[Chrisj CMA]

I switched to a chrome dipstick, and the marks are at slightly different locations than on the stock plain steel dipstick. Can anyone tell me how far from the bottom the full line is on a stock dipstick so I can transfer that measurement to the chrome one? Many thanks.

Don’t do it that way!  Change the oil. Do a good drain. Add 4 quarts. You now KNOW the oil level is correct. Insert the stick and wherever the oil hits is right, mark that. The best part is you get to choose how you check it. Screwed in, not screwed in upright, side stand it’s your call now.