Oil temp gauge Ã¢â‚¬â€œ what should the reading be

Post by **irishkeet** » 08 Aug 2006, 10:57

Hi

I've had an oil temp gauge fitted and I was wondering what the average temp should be.
On a long journey mine goes up to 120 but no more, is this ok?
Thanks

keet

Post by **HarryMann** » 08 Aug 2006, 11:16

What is the vehicle/engine?

Normally 130C would be a max no-go if the calibration is correct.
You should see it rise a bit when under load and hill-climbing and hopefully drop a bit when speeding downhill under a lighter load, ditto as evening comes on when air temps start dropping, oil temp should too.

Good idea to have this gauge. If it goes over 130C change the oil.

Post by **irishkeet** » 08 Aug 2006, 12:47

DOH!
Sorry its a 2l Aircooled Westy hightop
I also have to top up the oil, usually after a long journey and only about half a cup, is this normal?
thanks

Post by **Flibbertigibbet** » 08 Aug 2006, 13:10

I have no idea about temp gauges as I do not have one.....but it is worth remembering air cooleds use more oil in this hot weather.......(actually I could be making that up but I am sure that is what I was told )

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air-cooled

Post by **HarryMann** » 08 Aug 2006, 13:11

Doesn't sound too bad, and keeps adding fresh oil and additives into sump.

Oil is cheap, engine repairs are expensive, some performance cars in the 60's would use 1 pint/200 miles virtually from new.

Post by **irishkeet** » 08 Aug 2006, 13:57

Thats good to know
figured all was ok but its always good to have a second/third/fourth opinion