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On a recent trip from Florida to Tennessee I
observed oil temps in the 150s.
My engine is an IO-550N built by Monty
Barrett. I decided not to install a remotely controlled oil door because I
had been told that low oil temps were rarely/never a problem in the
Legacy. My experience differs.
When I started the flight OATs (8000) ft were in
the 40s and oil temps were in the 180s. But by the time I finished OATs
(8000) were in the 20s and oil temps were in the 150s. Related to and
probably partially the cause of the problem was my use of a low power setting
(2300 RPM, no ram air, 30deg LOP) to extend range.
Can low oil temps shorten TBO/damage the
engine?
Even with regular 25 hour oil changes using
Exxon Elite?
Should I go to the trouble to retrofit a remote oil
door, or just change my oil at a shorter interval?
Enquiring minds wish to know.
D. Brunner
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