Joseph Tu <joe@GREENCASTLE.DYN.ML.ORG> asked:
> Quick ?
>
> Anyone know how hot the oil in a 2.1 engine is running at when cruising
> at say 80 mph on a flat highway? Also how can you tell when you need new
> rings for your engine? I'm guessing that the oil is as hot or hotter than
> the oil cooler, and the cooler is at coolant temp. so this would mean 196
> deg or higher?
>

Answer 1:  Probably about 280 degrees F if filled to the top of the oil
level operating range!!!
Answer 2:  When you engine blows the oil out while driving 80 mph.
(IMHO)
Answer 3:  No kidding!

Answer to Answer 1:  Lower the oil level to 1/4 above the bottom of the
oil level operating range.  This will lower the oil temperature at 80
mph to approximately 200 degrees F (measured with a drain plug
temperature sensor).  This oil level is entirely within the
specification for the engine.  If you are burning oil you will have to
check the level very often so it will not drop too low.  Some people
have found that their 2.1 L engines will burn oil until the oil reaches
this level and then the oil consumption stops.

There are many notes in the archives on the important subject of oil
temperature.

Ed McLean
'86 Westi w/oil temperature gauge
North Carolina