I have a 464CU Buick motor that is 1/2 filled with Hardblock. I do not have an oil temp guage but would like to install an oil cooler for added insurance. IS THIS RECOMMENDED??? I have the new TA front cover and have great oil pressure. My concern is that being hard-blocked my oil temp will increase thus making the motor run hotter. I have 12.5: 1 comppression. ANy thoughts??? Joe
Hi Joe, I Hard Blok all my BBB's and would not advise an oil cooler as I believe it can only make the potential oil pressure/volume problems that may be encountered worse due to the restriction of the extra lines plus the core itself. Questions...... How's the overall water temp? If the water temp seems to be normal then the chances are very great that the oil temp's are also completely in check as the two pretty much work equally to share the engine's thermal load. What pan are you currently using? Hopefully not the stock 4qt pan!!![?B] Pan capacity has much to do with oil temp and the overall ability to "shed" temperature, the more oil you have in the sump the longer it takes for that same "drop" to recirculate. The longer it takes the more time it has to give off "it's" heat. TA has a nice 8qt steel pan that would be right for you OR if you think you need additional cooling beyond that contact Automotive Machine & Performance (270)729-5556. They sell a custom Stef's aluminum 8qt pan that would be even better as aluminum disipates heat even better than steel! Hope this helps.......
How much are Stef's pans? I haven't had the courage to call and ask. (Haven't had a heart screening yet so don't want to take any chances):laugh:
I believe the Stef's are going for around $450 from AM&P, not bad when you consider the TA steel pan is right at $400!:TU: Hope this helps.....
OIl Cooler Hi Kerry- I have the Postons girdled iol pan 8Qrt capacity....As far as the temp my motor run 185 degrees crusing in hot weather but will creep in traffic to 190-195. Thois is when I use my electric fan...otherwise I have a 7 blade clutch fan along with aluminum radiator....I was told the same concerns about added oil cooler lines and oil presuure so maybe i will stay away from oil cooler. What are your thoughts on a remote filter?? I'm currenlty using a system one direct to the motor but was thinking of running a remote filter. Would these added oil lines be any potentail trouble? Thanks Joe
I would put an oil temp gauge on to see how hot the oil is getting. Hardblok actually seperates oil and water, the water can remain cool while the oil temp rises. The water will cool the top of the engine and the oil is left with the job of cooling the lower half. My engine was poured nearly full and the oil temp would rise beyond control. I used a howe nascar radiator with oil heat exchanger and remote oil filter with -12 AN lines and had no oil related problems. First step is to find out how hot the oil is at operating temperature.
