Personally I think it is only there to keep viscosity up. Why is that
considered necessary? Because we have an oil gauge and get paranoid about
it getting 'too low', just like we get paranoid about the water temp gauge
getting 'too high'. What on earth do we need either for? Or a tach, "To
time those gear changes to perfection", to quote a vomitorious Ford ad of
the 80s. It's all a bit like going shopping in a Toyota Landcruiser.
PaulH.
http://freespace.virgin.net/paul.hunt1/
-----Original Message-----
From: Jim Stuart <jimbb88@erols.com>
To: MG list <mgs@autox.team.net>
Date: 09 March 1999 00:55
Subject: oil coolers
>
>Each year, as Spring (you remember, warm weather?) approaches, the
>subject of oil coolers comes up. Why do you think you need an oil
>cooler? Do you have any idea at what temp your oil is on a normal
>drive? Do you know what a safe operating temp range is for oil?
>
>Do you want an oil cooler with braided stainless hoses because it looks
>cool? If so, definitely buy one. You are the only one who knows why he
>needs one.
>
>For all the others, install a temp guage for your oil, find out if it is
>over 230` or whatever the limit is for the oil you run, then make an
>informed decision about buying a cooler.
>
>If your engine runs hot, fix your cooling problem, replace the radiator
>or have it cleaned. Granted, oil is a cooling agent for your engine, as
>is water, & lowering your oil temp with a cooler will also lower your
>water temp by a few degrees. This cooler oil will not circulate as
>freely, warms up slower, is less effective in lubricating your engine
>during the first miles driven, & may not get hot enough to evaporate the
>moisture, gasoline, & other nasty stuff that finds its way into your
>crank case.
>
>I run a V-8, well over 200 hp @ the flywheel, A/C on most of the summer
>in the GT, & no oil cooler. My oil temp guage seldom shows over 230`,
>even during a hard run. If your 4 cyl is in proper state, with a wide
>open engine bay, you should not need a cooler. If you race, or if your
>engine is heavily modified, that may be a different story.
>
>Off the soap box early this year.
>
>Jim Stuart
>2 V-8's no dollars or sense, but with oil temp guages in both cars
>
>
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