Originally Posted by
FlyinFoSheezy
Need a dispute settled...
Pilot A thinks that a cold engine's dipstick will indicate a slightly higher oil level than a warm (or hot) engine. The reason is due to the cold oil "creep" up the dipstick.
Pilot B thinks the reverse is true (hot engine dipstick indicates higher oil level).
What is your answer?
And, is the rule the same for turbine and reciprocating engines?
Creep isn't going to matter, expansion from heat isn't going to be significant.
Follow the operating manual. Some turbine engines require quantity to be checked within a few minutes after shutdown, mainly due to dry sump leakdown.
Most piston engines use a wet sump and the reading hot or cold will be nearly the same.
Checking the oil before start is always a good idea.