Checking oil for a newbee

[DorneyMA1]

Ok, sounds simple enough, check the oil all the time. I have a homelite ct-10, BS IC 11hp engine, screw in dipstick. When I put the dipstick in the tube and take it out, oil level looks low, but when I screw it in and then take it out, oil level looks right. I don't want to over fill it but don't want to run it low either, which is the correct method, screw it in or just set it on top?

[StanS]

Mark

Two assumptions: machine is level and has been off for at least 5 minutes. Method is the same every time.
Unscrew stick and wipe clean. Reinsert and screw down. Unscrew stick and hold perfectly horizontal while determining the level. Fill to the full mark and not one hair above. Remember that oil helps to cool the engine too so always keep to the mark. If it's overfilled then find a way to lower it before using. If it's not much overfilled then use a length of clear plastic hose (oxygen, etc.) and use it like a pipette or soda straw. Don't forget to inspect the oil on the stick, or from the straw, for discoloration or bubbles. Except for the straw business, this applies to all 4-cycle, diesel, and multifuel engines.
Wow, I forgot just how complicated this can be if you want to go the whole 8 yards. If you took quarterly oil samples for the lab then it's 9 yards.

Stan

[Fred]

Briggs says "screw it in".