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Engine Temperature?

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Old Aug 26, 2015 | 12:07 PM
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Default Engine Temperature?
I'd like to know what the operating engine temperature of my '15 Iron 883 is. What's the best way of measuring that? The easiest? The cheapest?

The bike is absolutely stock, and has about 3,600 kms on the odometer.

Thanks!

Alan
 
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Old Aug 26, 2015 | 01:43 PM
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A water cooled engine with a thermostat will operate in a very narrow temperature band.

An air cooled motor is not like that. It's operating temperature is going to vary based on how hard the motor is running, the ambient temperature, and the airflow going over the motor.

If you want to have something new to worry about, you can fit an oil temp gauge for cheap.
 
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Old Aug 26, 2015 | 01:47 PM
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You would have to buy the oil tank cap with thermometer. Temp should be ta the most 200 degrees. Mine usually is around 175, but on a hot day running hard, yes 200-250 could be reached. 250 is a little high though Im thinkng
 
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Old Aug 26, 2015 | 01:52 PM
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Default Engine Temperature?
Thanks to both of you! I'll follow up.
 
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Old Aug 26, 2015 | 01:57 PM
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All my air cooled bikes have ran 230-250. I've even seen 265 on hot days.
 
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Old Aug 26, 2015 | 02:29 PM
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I've just found a few on eBay, at reasonable prices (compared to what HD wants) and from seemingly reputable sellers. Thanks again!

Alan
 
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Old Aug 26, 2015 | 02:35 PM
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Default Engine Temperature?
I got an analog temp gauge that replaces the original oil dipstick. Using synthetic oil it gets about 200 on a hot day.
 
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Old Aug 26, 2015 | 02:40 PM
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I need a sportie. I run 220 until it gets in the 50's outside and then I'm finally dipping below 200. Remember, the oil temp gauges are oil temp only. Head temps are much hotter. 400* isn't unreasonable depending on where the sensor is.
 
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Old Aug 26, 2015 | 02:50 PM
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Default Engine Temperature?
Originally Posted by Dan.1977P
Remember, the oil temp gauges are oil temp only. Head temps are much hotter. 400* isn't unreasonable depending on where the sensor is.
How does one measure head temperature?

Alan
 
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Old Aug 26, 2015 | 02:53 PM
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Default Engine Temperature?
Originally Posted by 0maha
If you want to have something new to worry about, you can fit an oil temp gauge for cheap.
Do you think an oil temp gauge is an unnecessary add-on?

Alan
 
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