Engine Dipstick Tube...How Tight is too Tight?

[Sweet T]

After getting the motor out of the car I noticed the tube was not set in the block all the way, the bracket barely made it to the motor mount.  I couldn't get it to go in any further without a sledgehammer (Mr. Gasket)  Checked the hole found no obstruction, bought a different one that I was sure was for a 383/440 and ran into the same problem it just does not want to fit.  Is it common practice to beat them in with a hammer?

[Just 6T9 CHGR]

Yes....sometimes a bit of RTV helps lube the tube going in as well as seal it.

I have found a crows foot socket with the same diameter as the tube (can't remember the exact size) along with a long extension & a hammer works well to get the stubborn ones in.

The crows foot socket should fit on the ridge of the tube where it goes into the block.....

[Sweet T]

Thanks, I got it in with a lot of love from my hammer.

[Challenger340]

Give a bunch 'O love on the polisher first, and remove some of the chrome finish, from the end that goes in the block.

That way, it'll require less lov'in from the B.F.H.