Cooler Overkill?
Road Master
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 816
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From: Stone Harbor, NJ
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Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 99
Likes: 2
From: Bay Area, CA
well just went for a 2hr ride and came up with good results. Its 68 degrees today so after 20 min freeway ride got off and was at 180. After 40min it was at 190, then 210 after an hour. It reached 220 a little after an hour and stayed there for the rest of the ride. So I figure 220 is about the max it will go with this much cooling. It got up to 180 pretty quick so that was also a concern. I also was checking the oil pressure the whole time. It acted like normal.Started at 35psi and went down to about 24 at idle once warmed up. When I think it was shutting into safe mode it may of just been cutting out due to it being warmed up I guess. But after I got off the freeway i go through alot of traffic lights before I get home. thats where it would start to cut out. When idling for a light it got running real rough then eventually die. So I dont think my solution is to off the wall but doesnt seem anyone likes the coolers. I think they look ok and do a good job keeping my bike cool.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 2,427
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From: Smack Dab in the Middle of Louisiana
I run with a twin tube (down the front frame) oil cooler and it seams to do a good job. I have recently done some engine work so I am going to monitor the temps a little closer over the next couple of days.
I know that I am running richer than stock (which I think is to lean), so that will also help with engine temps.
I know that I am running richer than stock (which I think is to lean), so that will also help with engine temps.
Road Warrior
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 1,630
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From: Central FL
Water doesn't evaporate till it reaches 212 degrees. If your barely getting there you will have problems with condensation. Water in you oil is not good no matter what oil you run. In the long run you may be doing more harm than good. 180 degrees for oil is not good, it's not water like in a water cooled motor. It your bike and you do as you please but if your looking for longevity you may not find it with this fix.
If you are that seriuos about cooling your oil/engine you should consider getting a different exhaust, the two into one holds too much back pressure and stores the heat, then to top that off the rear cylinder tube on the header travels directly beside your engine transfering heat to the rear jug, primary, and allows the air filter to pull in warmer air (everyone knows cold air makes more power anyway).
Seriously, 240-260 on your oil temp is not too hot, you have other problems if the bike is cutting out and stalling.
Seriously, 240-260 on your oil temp is not too hot, you have other problems if the bike is cutting out and stalling.
Last edited by dope_man_21; May 29, 2011 at 10:36 PM.
Road Captain
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 583
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From: Eaton, OH
I think I would verify the accuracy of the thermometer too. It could be that your thermometer is reading way too high and your oil temperature is not really that high.
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Joined: Apr 2010
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From: Bay Area, CA
yea I have a laser thermometer I tried but got really different readings by shooting the outside of the jugs. I thought the accuracy of the gauge is in question but not sure how to check it.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 21,209
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From: South Carolina
Let`s not spread junk science...
Water does not boil until it reaches 212 degrees, but it will evaporate at much lower temperatures. It will evaporate off my driveway in New England in the middle of winter.
OP: If you have to hang oil coolers all over the bike to cool the oil, you have not cured the problem. The engine is producing too much heat.
To check the accuracy of your temp dipstick, put the measuring end into some boiling water, it should read 212 degrees (if you are at sea level).
Water does not boil until it reaches 212 degrees, but it will evaporate at much lower temperatures. It will evaporate off my driveway in New England in the middle of winter.
OP: If you have to hang oil coolers all over the bike to cool the oil, you have not cured the problem. The engine is producing too much heat.
To check the accuracy of your temp dipstick, put the measuring end into some boiling water, it should read 212 degrees (if you are at sea level).
Last edited by Dan89FLSTC; May 30, 2011 at 08:45 AM.