Oil Temperature

[Croc]

I am installing an oil temp gauge and at this stage of the installation are getting some inconsistent readings between 85 and 110 degrees. I am pretty sure this is an earth/loose connection issue on the installation that I can solve by fiddling around today.

 

However, for a stock standard 2L SVT Zetec, what oil temperature operating range should I expect to see?

[Kitcat]

I thot 210-220 was normal for most engines, no? People use synthetics because they can withstand even higher heat (240-280) with no ill effects. Your temps seem low.

[JohnCh]

I think he is referring to degrees Celsius while you are quoting degrees Fahrenheit

 

-John

[Croc]

:rofl:....As the token Aussie on the board driving a funny little British car with metric gauges...I automatically forgot that there was such a thing called Fahrenheit! :blush:

 

Ok so 210 F to 220 F equates to about 100 C to 105 C - so I am in the range.

 

Now if I can get the blasted thingy to stop weeping oil at the connection....

 

Thanks Guys!

[gjslutz]

My oil temp, is about the same as the water temp. +- 10'

[oilteq]

I thot 210-220 was normal for most engines, no? People use synthetics because they can withstand even higher heat (240-280) with no ill effects. Your temps seem low.

 

 

Synthetic oils are generally more resistant to oxidation (break down) than mineral oils. They do not necessarily withstand more heat, but they withstand high temperatures longer.

 

Starting at about 150 F,. any oil's oxidative life is cut in half by an 18 degree increase in temperature. So, any oil's oxidative life is 4 times longer at 200 than at 236.

 

I know a couple of stock car racers that will run 280 degree oil temperatures on what they call a "power track" with a mineral oil with no ill effects. Obviously they are not interested in extended drain intervals.

 

The thing to be aware of is that any oil will drop the equivalent of a viscosity grade with a 20 degree increase in temperature, which is why the stock car guys mentioned above use SAE 50.

 

Blaine

[lowflyer]

You didn't specify, but if your gauge connections are simple pipe thread a little Teflon tape would probably solve the drip. Not for use on AN fittings though.