Defective dipstick?
 

I have a 1984 280SEL europeon model (here in California if that makes a big change haha). I run the engine to normal operating temp on level ground, then shut it off to check the oil level. It always shows low. I added a quart to satisfy the thirst and the next week it appeared to need more again. Then I check it after setting for an hour and it's over full. Do you need to sit at the gas station for an hour to get the proper level?

Most of the oil should return to the pan after around 5-10 minutes or so.

Try checking the oil level at operating temp after the car has been sitting on the level ground with the engine off for at least five minutes.

If you check the level immediately after shut-off, it will indicate lower than its actual level.

if you have a lot of build up in your oil lines it might slow the return of the oil to the sump. try an oil cleaning additive drive it around, change the oil and try again.

You might risk wasting all your gaskets in the process. I wouldn't suggest putting in an oil cleaning additive and driving it around. It mgiht do more harm than good.

Its obvious that the oil is taking longer than usual to return and settle. It is definitely not your dipstick problem. What grade oil are you using?

I'm also curious to know what did you do last to your engine?

BIG OOPS! i did not mean drive around, DO NOT DRIVE AROUND, i meant IDLE the engine for 5-10 mins DO NOT DRIVE THE CAR WITH CLEANERS IN THE OIL SYSTEM. good call YMSIN

I've debated when is the best time to check the oil, first thing in the morning or after a few minutes of shutting the engine off. The owner's manual says to check the oil level with the oil being at operating temp. I would think that if the car has been sitting all night, then ALL the oil would be down in the pan, leaving no question as to how much oil is in the engine. I think the best way to monitor the oil level is to check it at the same time, consistently, ie; either stone cold or 10 min. after shut down.

For most mercedes, the oil level is normally inbetween the min/max marks as being normal. If its too high, get some out, if too low add some. as long as its inbetween min and max you hsould be ok.

Alon

Ok This is a final. I drained all the oil and added the appropriate ammount of fresh quality oil. The dipstick shows full.-------------- Then I checked it again first thing in the morning. Just by pulling the dip stick out it shows over full again. Clean the stick off and dip it again, it's oK.... I've come to the conclusion that the oil I'm using knows no gravity at night (just like Santa's Reindeer). All I can hope is that the 280 isn't burning a quart a week.

Thanks All

Sounds like all will be well, I hope.

Good weekend and a happy start to an excellent year all!

:)