Dave Dickson

I live in South Africa and own a 1996 STI classic which has recently had an engine overhaul and aftermarket oil cooler fitted.
The oil temperature gauge indicates +- 240F and oil pressure gauge +- 40PSI at normal running temperature.
Engine check light is on but this could be a faulty sensor.
Fuel used is 95RON + NF octane booster (+- 5 RON)
Any comments / advice would be greatly appreciated.

Rescue Dude

iTrader: (11)

If the pressure is ticking over then I'd say that's ok. The temp. is a bit hot for normal driving but presumably it's pretty warm down there in South Africa at the moment?

How recent was the rebuild?

alcazar

iTrader: (2)

Yep, that oil temp is high, it's around 115 deg C.
Mine runs 90 deg even in south of France thrashes, sometimes reaches 110 on a LONG hot motorway.

Blue by You

iTrader: (23)

As said given that you have a cooler fitted that temperature is too high as a permanent state. First thing would be to make sure the gauge is reading correctly, then make sure your cooler is working as you think it should i.e. if it has a thermostatic valve make sure it's not stuck closed.

What rpm are you quoting the pressure at?

Dave Dickson

around 3000rpm

Rescue Dude

iTrader: (11)

In which case the oil pressure is a bit low too.

fat-thomas

iTrader: (4)

the oil pressure will be lower if the oil is very hot as it will thin out.
do you have a thermostatic sandwich plate for the cooler?
mine opens at 85 and only really rises if in traffic with no airflow.

Rescue Dude

iTrader: (11)

This.

What grade oil are you using? If it really is getting that hot you'll need to change it very regularly.

Dave Dickson

I am not sure if the oil cooler has a thermostat sandwich plate. I will find out.
I usually use Castrol 20/60 but, again, will have to check what the garage put in.
Thanks again for your assistance. I will revert when I have more info..

Dave Dickson

oil cooler is working ok. changed oil & filter - and oil still above 240F
and pressure low. Now changing oil pump!

alcazar

iTrader: (2)

Just re-read your op.

Is the car mapped for 95 octane? If not, I'd seriously think of getting it done.
Octane boosters have been shown to be pretty cr@p.........