Ok thanks again all who chimed it.
I have a GM crate engine L3/376 480hp engine.
I’m running a wet sump, external oil cooler and Morso 3quart accumulator.
So, after a little more homework I will hold off going to the trouble of adding an engine oil temp sensor mounted after the oil cooler. As there is an easier test...
This is what I understand I should do:
1. After returning from a track session check the oil colour. If the oil is
NOT black then the oil, and therefore the engine, are not being harmed at the oil temps I’m seeing. Is that correct?
Further queries:
2. Don, are you directing your oil viscosity comment at Fran or me? I’m confused. I think
what you are saying is that I should run 5W-30 Mobile 1 because it will run cooler than my
current 5w-40 oil?
3. Don, what engine oil temp does the race car normally run at?
4. What is a ‘safe’ oil pressure at this temp?
5. Don, Is there much difference in oil temp if you don’t have the fan on the
external cooler running?
6. Don, you mention an oil is thick enough to run at 280F if oil pressure is
sufficient. If I see oil temp between 250F and 260F using 5w-40 oil at
what point would oil pressure be considered to be unsafe?
Digidash currently has the oil pressure warning alarm set to go off if it
drops below 30psi.
Next time at the track when I get the oil up to 250F-260F I want to be
able to set the oil pressure warning to go off if oil pressure falls below the
‘unsafe value’ for that temp range. Just need to know what that value is?
I think this is an easier way of
checking this issue with the tools I have rather then other means.
Cheers
Stu
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