Dipsticks

The following is derived from maintenance facility submissions to the FAA’s Service Difficulty Reports database.

Aviation Safety

Thursday, July 04, 2024 at 05:20 AM ET

Verified

Edited By: Omar Filipovic

USAF Thunderbirds Jim Koepnick

Key Takeaways:

Multiple incidents involved aircraft oil dipsticks becoming unsecured or detached, leading to engine oil pressure warnings, emergency shutdowns, and oil loss.
Other reported issues include dipstick component detachment during maintenance and incorrect markings on a dipstick, which caused over-servicing and excessive oil consumption.

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Beech C99 Airliner

Dipstick Not Secured

In cruise shortly after takeoff, the right engine low oil pressure warning light illuminated. The pilot shut down the right engine, declared an emergency and returned without further incident. Maintenance inspected right engine and found its oil dipstick was not secured and performed manufacturer’s recommended inspection. No defect found. Aircraft was returned to service.