Hello, I haven't been to this page for awhile. Did you get your questions answered about the fluid level. The extension on the dipstick is for early models that have the external hydraulics added. There was too much foaming happening, so Oliver increased the fluid level by moving the breather higher, and adding the extension. I have my hydrualics apart right now and am doing the extention. I also have to add two pick up tubes on the inside for the external hydraulic control.