[dmsfrr]

I just looked in the big red CTCI Restoration Manual and it says the engine oil dipstick & tube was a "plain finish", not painted. If you don't want the handle to rust a flat clear or dark-ish matt gray could work, or whatever you prefer.

Had to replace this one as well, but since I'm not going *original* the tube got painted black and the handle the same red as the car. 'Ford engine red' could be another choice?