Hi Folks,
I purchased a CT42 Mermaid about this time last year and sailed her home in May. There have been a few issues, quite a few actually, one of which is the Dipstick Tube was broken off about an inch or 2 above the
oil pan or sump entrance. I used the 'net to search for a new one but to no avail. Here's why,
The tube is attached to the sump with a
compression fitting and nut and it is a standard 3/8"(od) tube. I used a properly sized brake line, to replace the broken piece. The brake line is appropriate as it is flexible to fit whatever contortions are necessary to fit the allocated space. I also purchased a 3/8" brass
compression ring which I had to pre-compress before sliding it into position on the tube. So I pre-compressed it just enough to make it snug but still able to slide along the tube with a bit of friction. This is because the distance from the bottom end of the tube and the centre of the C-Ring needed to be the same as the previous tube (4") and the length of the tube needed to match the old (about 22" but I did not measure I just matched) as well in order for the dipstick to be positioned to give the same
oil depth reading. You must place the old compression nut onto the tube above the sleeve before bending the tube to fit as it won't make it around the bends (even slight ones) afterwards. It would be best to drain the oil while the tube and nut are off as the opening will allow for a larger drain tube, plus you can put the exact quantity of fresh oil required and that will confirm the dipstick is at the correct level. That's about it but I did have to loosen the starter to access the compression nut and it made it easier to install the new tube as well. If you need more info feel free to drop me a note. Cheers to all.