Dipstick tube out of line

[friedy]

This is down to poor quality, not made the same as original, replacement parts. New front cover all assembled up now after a couple of other problems. Now I've got the alternator bracket on, the dipstick tube is directly underneath the bracket. Looks like I will have to bend the tube to get the dipstick in. Worries me a bit incase the casting cracks. Anyone else had this problem?
Alan.

[Hawksfield]

Hi a front view image would help us to help you

[john.p.clegg]

What make is the front cover?

John

[mbell]

It looks might be too upright from the photo. Top of my tube is 1/2" horizontally from lower mount lug on the timing case that is level with top of dip stick.

[Donels]

Here’s some pics of mine when I rebuilt it with a new cartridge pump kit from Burton.

First is with correct bracket and a plug cover to stop leaks, other two are with wrong bracket but give an idea of alignment.

[512BB]

I have never been able to fathom why some engine builders do not paint the front cover. Why did you not paint yours Dave?

Leslie

[Donels]

The original was unpainted so I left it the same. I assumed that’s what Lotus did, but I really don’t know.

[friedy]

Here's some different views, its directlyunderneath the alt bracket. Looking at the original the tube also angled forward.

[Donels]

Just a thought. If you turned the bracket over and use spacers to the alternator will it miss the bracket?

[friedy]

Hi Donel, no it's actually underneath the section that crosses to each side of the cover fixings.

[Donels]

I think you have a couple of options, contact the supplier and get your money back. Who was the supplier?
Or make your own bracket to suit. I made mine as it didn’t line up correctly probably because I’m using a clogged belt drive for the water pump.

I would not try to bend the tube as it will buckle, probably where it goes in the casting.

[john.p.clegg]

What make is the front cover?

John

Looks like the drilling was vertical instead of angled....name and shame, I wouldn't want to buy one from them...would you ??

John

[pharriso]

Surely (& I know don't call me surely...) the alternator bracket is on upside down?

[friedy]

I got this from QED. At the time I contacted most of the usual suppliers and they all were waiting for them to come in at about the same time.i reckon they all come from the same manufacturer anyway.
My bracket is a little bit different design to your pharriso, I've looked on parts listing and mine looks same as on there.

[pharriso]

I just can't see that it should be curved upwards

To clarify - I'm talking about Donel's bracket...