First Oil Change Issue

[mcbrune]

Just finished my first oil change on the expedition (2004 5.4 l), put in 5 quarts, then added about half a quart more, started the engine let it fill the filter, gave it an hour to drain and checked the oil. The level reads extremely high. Seems like every time I check I get a different reading, but most of them are above the max line. I drained the filter and restarted and rechecked but it didn't seem to change much. Is it possible I have the wrong dipstick? Anyone else have issues getting a consistent oil level reading? Thanks in advance.

 

[stamp11127]

Yes it is possible to have the wrong length dip stick. In your case I would go by the quantity required for your application and let all the oil drain back into the pan. Mark where it is on the stick with a center punch then you will know the high mark.

 

[mcbrune]

More Info

Checked the Dipstick the part number is 2L1E-6750-ce does anyone know if this is correct. The 4.6 was listed on fords part site as having the same last 4 digits. It won't show the rest and the price is different. Are there two different lengths for the two different engines? Does anyone with a 5.4 l know what their part number is?

 

[Boose]

something is "off". Are you sure the truck is on level ground? My 05 with the 3 valve takes 7 quarts. I assume your 04 is a 2 valve motor which should take 6 I believe. If the truck is not on level ground you will absolutely get a false reading. Not necessarily uphill/down hill, but side to side as well. Just a thought as I've accidentally had that problem before.

 

[mcbrune]

Seems "off" alright

It's in our garage, so pretty level. I definitely agree something seems "off" i'm trying to decide whether to dump some oil to get in the acceptable range, but it doesn't seem like I should have to since I only put in 5 1/2 quarts and have already dumped about half a pint with the filter. The truck did run for about 5-10 minutes before I changed the oil, not enough to heat it up, but long enough to spread it around the system. Surely that wouldn't maintain a quart in the engine while I drain it would it. (I should have let it run much longer to heat up the oil, but as cold oil splashed me it occured to me, a bit too late).

 

[metaldrgn]

I have a similar issue with my 03. I think I put in about 4.5 qts. Haven't had any issues. You don't want it over filled.