Question on oil temp

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Aug 9, 2012 | 04:39 PM

#11

low_n_slow1

5th Gear

Joined: Jul 2012

Posts: 9

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From: Florida

230 is not a bad temp......I was told the twin cam can handle more than that. I know I have had my temp to at least 260. Still ran great then.

Aug 10, 2012 | 11:37 AM

#12

iclick

Extreme HDF Member

Joined: Sep 2005

Posts: 11,615

Likes: 50

From: Baton Rouge, LA

Quote:

Originally Posted by low_n_slow1

230 is not a bad temp......I was told the twin cam can handle more than that. I know I have had my temp to at least 260. Still ran great then.

The engine will certainly survive in the short run, but the oil is better off running at lower temps. Oxidation increases exponentially as temperatures move into the range above, above about 180°, even synthetics.

Also, remember that as temps change metal components expand and contract at different rates depending on location and metal composition, and it would seem the wider the range of temps the more change you have. The more change the more those components will wear to the change, which means more wear. An engine that is run constantly at one temperature will last much longer than one that has continual cold-heat cycles, especially one exposed to a broader range of operating temperatures. Just my 2¢, and I invite comments from those who have better mechanical knowledge than I do, which is probably most of those reading this.