Dipstick o-ring

I recently had an oil change done on my 2017 5.7 (50,000 klm), prior to getting it serviced I noticed that the o-ring at the top, where the yellow handle is, was really worn. I brought it to the dealership and told them about it.

Later on I drove home and double checked to make sure they didn't mess around, I had to really pull hard on the dipstick and to my surprise a new o-ring that looked a little to big. I couldn't force the dipstick back in since the o-ring was too big so I removed it entirely.

Is it okay to do that? I know they have that part there for a reason, but will moisture creep in? Appreciate any help or insight, thanks.

 

First world problems.....The sky is falling the sky is falling. I think your ok as far as the moisture is concerned, more worried about o ring going down rabbit hole....

 

I'm just really anal when it comes (hahaha) to servicing my vehicles fluids, I could drive around with a broken tail-light without caring since it's cheaper than an engine if I had to replace something.

 

You should get it repaired properly.

The missing o-ring will cause air to be drawn into the crankcase by the PVC system, not to mention dirt and moisture. An extreme example can be experienced if you leave the oil filler cap off while running the engine; the engine will run really rough because of the excess air being pulled into the crankcase and then into the throttle body. The engine is supposed to be sealed to maximize the effectiveness of the PVC system.

 

I'll make sure to find the proper sized o-ring at my local hardware store. At least the dipstick isn't too loose, I might just get a ride from a friend. Thanks for the really informative response, much appreciated!

 

There is nothing wrong with being anal. An engine is not hermitically sealed, and condensation isn't really a concern, as long as your running the engine long enough to burn off...No short trips.

 

It's funny you mention that, it has only been short trips since the pandemic started. A victim of circumstance I guess.

 

See, with me it's a little different. I get bored so i take long trips. No reason other than to waste gas....

 

LOL. Cold start, so open loop - nothing really compensating. Probably ok driving to store for new dipstick o-ring.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xu3gR9luYJc

 

Who you calling a dipstick o-ring? Haha

 

Should I just replace the whole dipstick, or buy the o-ring? Does it have to be a Toyota OEM o-ring, or will any hardware store variant work?

 

From my personal experience, buying a single o-ring, or even a reasonable quantity of o-rings, of exactly the right dimensions and correct material will be a relatively expensive challenge. You'll have enough dipstick o-rings for yourself, and all your friends and family for a 1000 lifetimes. You've already observed the efforts of trained professionals in this quest.

I would probably just order the dip stick assembly from a Toyota dealer and be done with it. Compare the new length against the old closely to insure that the new dipstick is correct.

 

I'm thinking this ^^^ too. But wanted to offer this experience of mine. I recently replaced the entire dipstick on my 1997 T-100 (sealing ring had worn enough that I thought it might be prudent). Bought an OEM one from Toyota dealer. I was very surprised at how "snug" it fit going in the first time. Then when I went to remove it (to just double check how it was reading compared to my original (and I mean 1997 original)) one I was very surprised at how much "tug" I had to put on that thing.

 

Good Point.

A brand new fresh o-ring will be full of "durometer". OP is well-advised to apply a generous coat of motor oil before installation.

 

You didn't like how the o ring didn't seal, so your final solution was not to use anything, seems like those two things would be on opposite ends of the spectrum

 

The dipstick wouldn't go back in with the "replacement" o-ring, at least it will stay in there without one until my dealer gets the part in. It wouldn't be wise to force it in and potentially break the oil tube entirely.

 

So, from Colorado, with very little heavy rain and big puddles. Went to Illinois for family and ended up in a big rain storm, driving through several very big unavoidable standing water areas at about 25 and under mph.
Started the truck in the morning and something was making a loud noise, pretty sure it was the secondary intake bs. Shut it down, and let it sit. Checked the oil and there was water on the dipstick and no o-ring on the dipstick.
Probablt not common, but I do believe water can get in that way.
Wasn’t a lot, changed the oil and no issues.
Im going to get a new dipstick only because I’ve had a plastic tipped dipstick break in the past because it was difficult to remove…

ymmv