Step-by-Step Dipstick Replacement for 1994-1997 12-Valve Cummins Trucks

Fixing the Cracked Dipstick on Your 1994-1997 12-Valve Cummins

One thing I KNOW you ’94-’97 Dodge guys are looking for is a solid solution to your cracked and broken OEM engine oil dipstick tube. I’ve been dealing with mine leaking all last year, and it’s finally time to nip this issue in the bud with a Lokar locking dipstick. This replacement not only looks really cool, but it’s also the fix for when your OEM dipstick cracks at the handle and inevitably leaks oil out of the top while your truck is running. Let’s get into this quick install!

Today, we’re going to put this locking dipstick and tube on “Stock to Not,” our Diesel World project truck that we’ve been tinkering with for a little over a year now. Like we stated before, the stock dipstick has been a pain in the neck being that it is cracked, and replacing it with another OE one knowing it’s just going to crack again doesn’t sit well with me.

So here is our replacement—a Lokar locking dipstick with the tube. Featuring a full braided hose, Lokar’s patented locking mechanism and e-bracketry allow for mounting in a few different locations, but we’ll be putting ours where it mounts on our Pusher Dual Ram intake.

It’s just a quick bolt out at the top and a lay underneath the truck with a pair of vice grips to get the old dipstick tube out of the oil pan. Make sure to clean around the hole so that you don’t drag any grime or dirt into it, so it’s easy to get the new one back in.

Here’s what the 238,000-mile dipstick and tube look like compared to the new Lokar locking dipstick.

After cleaning up the hole for the tube on the side of the engine, feed the new locking dipstick down, and use your OEM dipstick hardware to mount it back to the intake horn.

We used a torch to discolor the dipstick at the correct engine oil level so it didn’t disappear after use. Next, I tightened the knob back on and clicked it into place.

That wraps up this install! We’re back to ripping without having a rag zip-tied around the crack of the old dipstick in Stock to Not! This install was super easy, although getting the stock tube out of its home was the biggest complaint I saw when doing my research on the 12-valve dipstick tube replacement.
Happy wrenching!

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How can 24/7 truck roadside assistance help reduce downtime and save money for truck operators?

How 24/7 Truck Roadside Assistance Minimizes Downtime and Cuts Costs for Operators

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Unlocking Fleet Efficiency and Cost Savings with Mobile Preventive Maintenance

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How Mobile Preventive Maintenance Benefits Fleet Management

Mobile preventive maintenance offers myriad advantages for fleet management, transforming the way managers oversee their vehicles.

Minimize Downtime:
With mobile maintenance, technicians come to your location, meaning there’s no need to divert vehicles to off-site workshops. This approach significantly reduces vehicle downtime, keeping your fleet on the road and operational.
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What makes the 12-valve Cummins engine a respected and admired piece of machinery in the diesel engine community?

The 12-valve Cummins engine has secured its place as a beloved icon among diesel enthusiasts for several compelling reasons:

Simplicity and Reliability: The engine’s straightforward design eliminates unnecessary complexities, making it incredibly reliable and easier to maintain. This simplicity contributes greatly to its longstanding trust among drivers who prefer minimal mechanical interference.
Robust Construction: Built with durability in mind, the 12-valve Cummins is renowned for its strong and sturdy build. This robustness ensures that the engine can withstand heavy use and harsh conditions without compromising performance.
Adaptability: Its versatility sets it apart from many competitors. The engine can be modified and tuned to suit a variety of applications, from powering heavy-duty trucks to serving as a powerhouse on the farm. This adaptability is a key factor in its widespread appeal.
Cult Following: Over the years, the engine has evolved from a reliable power source to a cult classic in the automotive world. This transformation is due in part to the passionate community of enthusiasts dedicated to preserving and enhancing its capabilities.
Performance Legacy: Since its debut in the late 1980s, the 12-valve Cummins has consistently delivered reliable power and torque. This performance track record has solidified its legacy as a top choice for those seeking both power and efficiency in a diesel engine.

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What are the main attributes of the 12-valve Cummins engine that contribute to its popularity?

Main Attributes of the 12-Valve Cummins Engine

The 12-valve Cummins engine is celebrated for several key characteristics that have earned it a dedicated following:

Simplicity: This engine is engineered with straightforward mechanics, making it relatively easy to maintain and repair. Its design minimizes complex electronics, which appeals to DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Robustness: Known for its durability, the 12-valve Cummins can handle rigorous conditions and high mileage without significant performance drops. This reliability has ensured its status as a trusted choice for various applications.
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How did the 12-valve Cummins engine evolve into a cult classic?

The Evolution of a Legend: How the 12-Valve Cummins Engine Became a Cult Classic

The journey of the 12-valve Cummins engine from introduction to icon is a tale of resilience and engineering brilliance. Launched in the late 1980s, this engine quickly distinguished itself with features that diesel enthusiasts respect and admire to this day.

Simplicity and Reliability

At the heart of its success lies its straightforward design. The engine is renowned for its exceptional reliability, with a minimalistic mechanical setup that appeals to both mechanics and enthusiasts. This simplicity translates to ease of maintenance and longevity, qualities that are highly sought after in the world of diesel engines.

Robust Performance

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Adaptability

Another key factor contributing to its cult status is its adaptability. The engine’s straightforward mechanical configuration makes it an ideal candidate for modifications and performance enhancements. This versatility attracts a vibrant community of hobbyists and professionals alike, all eager to personalize and optimize the engine’s capabilities.

Why It Matters

In essence, the 12-valve Cummins engine grew into a cult classic because it perfectly balances simplicity, durability, and flexibility. These elements have forged a legacy that continues to captivate and inspire, cementing its place in modern mechanical folklore.