Oil Cooler T-Stat Necessary?

Redd Snake · #1 (**permalink**) 10-23-2002, 05:35 PM

I'm installing a 490 HP stroked FE 427 into my replica. I will be installing a Ron Davis radiator and Finishline's oil cooler/shroud. The car will be primarily street-driven in a warm climate.

Do I need an oil cooler thermostat?

Fred Hamilton · #2 (**permalink**) 10-23-2002, 06:24 PM

I have driven my Superformance in all weather and unless I am working the gears my oil temp is always low. Normal driving and I will never see my oil temp rise above 60 to 70 C(140 to 160). I just finished (tonight) installing a oil thermostat. I ran the engine and in no time at all I was up to a normal oil temp 80 to 90C (175 to 195) and this was in the driveway. In cooler weather I have seen my oil temp as low as 130 and that was going down the freeway on a cool morning. I would watch the oil temp and if it stays cool then go with the Thermostat cold oil is not good. Now this information only pertains to my itty bitty small block.

Back in Black · #3 (**permalink**) 10-23-2002, 06:30 PM

But much of So Cali is a blazing inferno in the summer...especially the inland deserts and valleys...because I will use my new cobra as a touring car, it will have an oil T-stat...what do you have to lose if it never turns on? but in cold weather it allows the oil to heat up.



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