Hmm, I'm not certain, but the hose set that came with my MityVac is plenty long. I just push it into the dipstick tube until it hits bottom. Maybe 24 inches down the tube, then enough to reach across the fender to the pump.

 

What model Mityvac do you use, Rodney? I'm considering doing topside oil changes, but all the pumps I see have some pretty critical reviews on Amazon. Apparently, Mityvac, and all the others for that matter, seem to have some quality control problems (in Mityvac's case, missing parts). That, or it's the usual incompetence of the user problem. Any comment or suggestions? Are power units any more dependable?
Thanks in advance,
Mike

 

Just happen I came across this on the similar topics.

MBWorld.org Forums - View Single Post - Oil Dipstick Length for C320 ??

"I tried a few more times and finally was able to insert the engine oil dip stick/rod tool all the way IN, I heard a click ! is about 740mm to the top of the tube..."

 

I have this one:

TheToolWarehouse.net - Discount Automotive Equipment - Order Discount Automotive Specialty Tools

I haven't had any major problems with it. The most common issue is that the end caps on the valve cylinder get loose and need periodic tightening. The rubber adapters for the hoses wear out, so I just made new ones from various rubber grommets. Also, you MUST suction HOT oil - if not, you will end up needing so much vacuum that the unit can collapse itself. Overall, I am happy with it, but it is typical Chinese "stuff" - nothing like the USA-made Assenmacher pump I have for the 722.9 transmission - it's very high quality.

 

This is the same one I have and haven't had any problems. I have done at least 6 changes on it. I always clean it after I empty the oil. No issues. It has paid for itself easily.

 

Thanks for the info.

 

If you have an air compressor, this one works great:

Pneumatic Oil Extractor

Comes with five extracting tubes (two metal, three plastic) and two brass fittings. You can slip a drinking straw on one of the fitting and use it for brake or steering fluid. I use the tube for the oil as a dip stick also by marking it with a sharpie. Works best with oil warm..........if its too hot the plastic tubing can deform.

 

I have this one too. Works great, I do wish it had an easier way to empty it.. It's a bit heavy to dump.

Bill

 

That last one would be nice if I were running a small garage or doing a lot of work for friends. I only need to do a change once a year. Thanks.

 

I insert the oil extrator suction tube and it clicks at around 80cm measured from the dipstick entrance. The outer diameter of suction tube is 6mm. Anyone knows if it click at somewhere in the middle or it really hits the oil pan bottom.

 

The upper is the tranny oil dipstick, while the lower is the engine oil dipstick.

Why the head of engine oil dipstick looks like a hammerhead? And, why it twists near the end?

 

Why the head of engine oil dipstick looks like a hammerhead? And, why it twists near the end?

To prevent the measuring area from rubbing on the side of the dipstick tube.

 

I have done some test. Here's the result.

1. The 6mm (Outer Diameter) can get through the dip tube and hit the bottom of oil pan. I learn that the official one is 5.8mm but 6mm is much easier to find and works in the same way.

2. The length measured from the entrance of dip tube to the oil pan bottom should be roughly 800mm.

3. For 112.946 (C320) engine, the oil level from the bottom of oil pan should read 168-170mm when the car is leveled and just right.

 

on my 2005 C240 I don't need a tube. The extractor connects perfectly to the "dipstick" tube. The extractor even has a Mercedes star on it!

 

If you aren't putting an extraction tube down the dipstick tube, then you aren't reaching the bottom of the pan. The dipstick tube ends an inch or so above the bottom of the oil pan.