Classic/Antique Car Repair: quantity of engine oil, book specs, dip stick

Question
Hi Jack: I have the Les Andrews book. Specs. say 4-1/2qts.on oil change. Pg. 1-160 says "add oil up to the F on dipstick and do not over fill". I'm at the F with 3-1/2qts. It is a 31 with a 31 pan. Do I go with quantity or follow the dipstick? Thanks in advance. Doug.

Answer
I would try another A dip stick, one from a friend's car, and if it says the same as yours, then go with the dip stick.  The A engine really does not care if it has 4 or 3 1/2 qts.  After an oil change, if it is handier to just to put 4 qts in, that would be OK too.  
The main thing is to drive that A.  It will run so much better if you run it a lot.  It is a very tough little  car.
Have fun.
jack