why is it better to have a "average" (let's say 240 degrees) or hot oil temp than rather leaving it cool? I've noticed people duct taping their oil coolers sometimes to to keep it hot.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by hmongboyLS &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">I've noticed people duct taping their oil coolers sometimes to to keep it hot.</TD></TR></TABLE>
Its got nothing to do with the oil temp. They use duct tape 'cause chicks dig duct tape.

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by thawley &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">
Its got nothing to do with the oil temp. They use duct tape 'cause chicks dig duct tape.</TD></TR></TABLE>

hahaha, always a great answer from Thawley. Or is it cause duct tape just looks bitchin' like flat black.

 

Typically on cooler days it's advised to tape over the cooler to prevent the oil from running too cold...or so I believe.

 

'cold' oil is not as 'slick' as hot oil, and you might see some power drop, and or oil issues. (this is taking the extreme).

 

engines are designed to run at a certain temp, same with oil. Some high end oil coolers even have thermostats to combat this

 

<TABLE WIDTH="90%" CELLSPACING=0 CELLPADDING=0 ALIGN=CENTER><TR><TD>Quote, originally posted by hmongboyLS &raquo;</TD></TR><TR><TD CLASS="quote">why is it better to have a "average" (let's say 240 degrees) or hot oil temp than rather leaving it cool? I've noticed people duct taping their oil coolers sometimes to to keep it hot.</TD></TR></TABLE>

To maximize power and to still have ample protection in the engine bearings, you want to have the motor oil heated to the proper temperature range. As oil heats up, it's viscosity reduces and it ability to flow increases. At the same time, the oil's ability to handle the reciprocating and combustion forces at the clearances in the bearings reduces somewhat. Thus, you want your oil at the temperature where it flows adequately reducing power loss due to friction and where the oil can still support the tremendous forces in the crankshaft and rod ends.