Re: Arghh...Need to invent a fix. Advice?
Who cares if its not marine approved? Power steering pumps aren't but they get used. Temp and oil gauge sending units are EXACTLY the same part numbers as automotive with no specific 'marine' reference. The only thing I don't like about oil level monitoring is they don't seem to be accurate. However I can say in my experience they can keep you from running dry which is okay I suppose. Just find a dipstick tube and stick that fits, cut the tube and dipstick or use current dipstick and cut used tube to fit. Doesn't have to be perfect, it just has to let you know that the oil level is okay or dropping. Really, ANYTHING that fits and looks good is fine as long as it allows you to monitor the oil level. I've had to use long curved dipstick tubes from completely unrelated engines with a flexible spring type dipstick for custom installs. Looks factory and perfectly functional. You can buy dipstick tubes everywhere, don't get stuck thinking you must have that size. A tubing cutter will make it good. Why not customize it so when you lift the engine cover it is right there where it can be easily seen and reached. Then maybe even find one of those long curved oil fill tubes from a van that can be positioned so an oil fill cap is right next to the dipstick and filling oil up is easy. I've also custom made them so they are right next to closed system antifreeze overflow bottles, along with a custom power steering indicator glass. Custom big block installs in small engine bays makes one get creative. Did a 454 in a Chevy Vega once, man that was a sweet one. The entire rear hatchback area was fender wells for the tires since rules stated tires could not extend past fenders on the outside. Think about what you would really like in your application, then think about what each individual obstacle presents and how you can work around them. Ya'll be surprised at what you can come up with. I've seen such ingenious and simple fabrications I've wondered why I didn't think of that. And when it looks sharp you'll feel really awesome every time you see it.
