Dipstick tube attachment points
 

2001 3.0
I’m finishing up my reassemble after the head gasket. There two weldments with bolts screwed in finger tight that I could use some assistance in verifying what they connect to. I’m pretty sure I twisted the dipstick tube some during the project and could use some input. Thanks.

It would appear that the lower bolt attaches the dipstick tube to the motor mount arm. Unless the small flange on the tube can fit down inside the hole where it rests, I’m about 1/4 inch shy of being able to thread the bolt.

I would say the dipstick tube is not deep enough in the pan. Make sure you don't have 2 o-rings in there if you replaced the one in your rebuild.

I figured it out. The dipstick wasn’t deep enough. I made a special tool of 1/2” conduit, smashed one end and ground a notch in the flat end. I tried other tapping and wiggling to no avail. The tube was too springy at the top. Yes, the flange has to make it into the opening so the bolt can pass through the casting on the motor mount. Oil leak fixed. Onto the next issue.

Good job I removed my dipstick to work on my starter and it was definitely a challenge to get it back in but I just wiggled back and forth with my body weight on it.