They came from the factory like that.
The tall one is not a dipstick, it's a fill point for oil for easier access.
The short one is for checking oil level.
The parts lookup for the 147 shows both but they call them both dipsticks.
Ref:# 26 - KH-A-236640 Dipstick - is for adding oil
Ref:# 134 - KH-A-237282 Dipstick - is the actual dipstick for checking oil level.

https://www.cubcadet.com/en_US/conte...4a00ef4f5238/y

There was a decal on the engine heat shield that tried to explain it but unfortunately they did not last.
https://www.ihcubcadet.com/attachmen...038-jpg.41187/

Thank you. Thats exactly the answer I have been looking for. I looked up the 2356640 dipstick and its short just like mine. So mine is NOT broken. Thats how its made. This was a learning lesson . Again thank you.

What bill682 said on the dipstick.

Yea bill682.....

As per the 147's Owner's Manual, page #27.....

That is what I saw, too! However, I didn't notice the balance gears was included in the parts diagram and parts description in the Cub Cadet parts and service lookup. It is there! And what was drawn in parts diagram, both the dip stick and cam cover, was drawn poorly... Don't you think?? The parts reference says a lot!

I have to say to bill682: Good Eye!

This is from the 73, 106, 107, 126, 127, 147 operators manual dated 11/70.

Also from the 11/70 manual.

This is from the 73, 106, 107, 126, 127, 147 operators manual dated 7/76?