Oil thermostat

[Underwood]

Having moved my Oil cooler to a position that allows its own air intake instead of piggybacked behind the Coolant radiator, I now have the opposite problem of over cooling the oil.

cant get max above 80c so will have to blank some of the oil cooler probably use neoprene wrap...not a problem

But allong with the low max temps its also taking ages to reach temp before flying so I'm gonna fit a thermostat. (thermostasis unit)

Was just wondering do any of you guys fit them?, or are your ambient temps high enough that warm up is hardly ever a concern?

[FlyBoy1960]

They work great, i think i still have a new one laying around somewhere. Let me look.

[facthunter]

 Watch how you PLUMB it. It must not impede the Oil flow.  It's also something else to go wrong.  Nev

[PapaFox]

We just cover half of the oil cooler in winter and accept the upto 10 mins from start to wheels up as a good time for the rest of the motor to warm up evenly and by ready for the cold air charge that comes with flying speed 

[IBob]

I bought an auto one (not Thermostasis), have seen them on Rotaxes, but decided not to instal it as they can fail closed: that is fail in the radiator bypass position.
If installing one I would want to check the fail position.

[skippydiesel]

7 hours ago, Underwood said:

Having moved my Oil cooler to a position that allows its own air intake instead of piggybacked behind the Coolant radiator, I now have the opposite problem of over cooling the oil.

cant get max above 80c so will have to blank some of the oil cooler probably use neoprene wrap...not a problem

But allong with the low max temps its also taking ages to reach temp before flying so I'm gonna fit a thermostat. (thermostasis unit)

Was just wondering do any of you guys fit them?, or are your ambient temps high enough that warm up is hardly ever a concern?

I have one, never used - came with the aircraft.

I can only sympathise with those that must endure long cold winters - living near Sydney, Australia, I enjoy a more moderate environment. I still "blank" off part of my coolant radiator & oil cooler when day temperatures routinely go below 25C.

After much trial/error I arrived at a good compromise blanking, which I have photographed for future reference. In Cruise I have Oil temp. 90-95C. Coolant/CHT 90C. Climb OUT 100-105C.

I find that the engine warm up period (Oil -50C) is well spent on checks, review of plan, etc

I use  adhesive backed refrigeration aluminium tape. Easy to cut & apply -  can leave a residue when removed. Residue responds to most hydrocarbons.

 

Reasons for use -

• Engine operated in seasonally very cold climates  eg. N. America, UK, N Europe etc
• Speeds warm up. Reduced fuel consumption & frustration. Certainly important in cold climate opps but more of a perception benefit, in warmer climates
• May maintain even engine temperatures on descent - assist with carburettor ice prevention (if fitted) 

Reasons against - 

• Significant added complexity = more to go wrong = heightened risk. From memory, at lest 4 additional joins in oil supply hose. All things mechanical will fail.
• Increased weight. Probably a minor concern however every minor increase adds up.
• Cost. Depending on arm length & depth of pockets, may or may not be an issue.😈