oil coolers (2010)

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Jagg 6 row oil cooler (they also have a new automatic bypass unit which looks interesting):

http://www.setrabusa.com/jagg%20files/j ... gghome.htm

Installed mid-bike:
oil coolers (2010)

oil coolers (2010)
 
I think the one at mikes xs is too big for how I'd mount it.... Is there a specific lockhart model for norton, or will any of them work?
 
If you mount to the front of the frame, make sure to mount the cooler fairly high or you may have problems with the cooler hitting the front fender. This, and frame mounted highway bars, are the reasons many Commando's have creases in the front fender. Mount the Lockhart cooler with the oil lines facing up. Run the oil lines along the frame back bone, under the gas tank. I have a Lockhart thermal bypass valve under the tank also. I cut of the center part of the cooler mounting plate off, leaving only the 2 small tabs that run perpendicular to the cooler, and used the same type of mounting clamps that are used to hold on the hand rail.
Bill G
 
hmmmm... one of those came mounted on my '73 TR7, helped a bunch riding through the Mojave...
 
I've had a Hyde bottle-brush cooler and Mocal thermostat for the last decade or so--given to me by a fine Brit named Alan Lewer, I believe--we'd done hard time in West Africa in different decades--thanks again, Alan


Tim Kraakevik
kraakevik@voyager.net
'72 Combat
 
oil coolers (2010)

Had a Lockhart cooler back in 75. Now using Earl’s cooler. Also measuring oil pressure and temperature on way to head.
oil coolers (2010)

Transducer and temperature probe is at head feed junction block.
oil coolers (2010)

If I ride in winter, I will install a bypass thermostat to minimize overcooling oil/head.
 
Honda CBR 600 not sure which model .. its been in since 1993 ... before that one off a trident -
 
Is there any evidence that a Norton Commando needs an oil cooler? The fact that an oil cooler can reduce the oil temperature does not mean that the oil temperature NEEDS to be reduced. Certainly, I can see that a modified, higher HP (more heat) motor may benefit from an oil cooler, but I'm not aware of any data indicating that a stock Commando motor needs one.
 
I do not run an oil cooler but there is info on why it could be needed and data included.

http://www.nortonclub.com/docs/OilTemp.pdf

To summarize my initial conclusions:

• The Norton Commando is capable under extreme riding conditions of experiencing engine temperatures that can cause rapid breakdown of commonly used oils.
• The only place on the engine where such extreme temperatures can occur is the cylinder head.
• The condition most likely to create oil-destroying temperature is reduced airflow over the cylinder head, especially following or combined with high-speed or uphill riding.
• All oils are not equal and some differ greatly from the norm in their maximum temperature rating.

So maybe the best solution is combining an oil from Jim's test recommended list and something that will cool oil going to the cylinder head thermostatically controlled.
 
Is there any evidence that a Norton Commando needs an oil cooler?
-----------------

Maybe racing? In the summer of 1972 I rode my Combat 4000 miles stock with no oil cooler halfway across the United States and back home. The trip included crossing the central plains at 75mph with temps around 90, and across Death Valley with night time temps
of 105. No overheating, no issues at all.
 
kommando said:
So maybe the best solution is combining an oil from Jim's test recommended list and something that will cool oil going to the cylinder head thermostatically controlled.
Click to expand...

Sounds like a plan to me! Pretty much what I plan on doing.
 
Mine has
kommando said:
I do not run an oil cooler but there is info on why it could be needed and data included.

http://www.nortonclub.com/docs/OilTemp.pdf
Click to expand...

Interesting test! The temp reduction wasn't enough to convince me I need an oil cooler for my type of riding but the oil analysis over an extended operation was very informative, especially the oxidation numbers. As he (and Jim's testing) indicated, the choice of oil is a major factor. Thanks for posting it!
 
After some recent ride outs, an oil warmer could be needed!! even after 40 mile runs the banjo bolt on the tank is cool enough to hold the fingers on. Back in the summer in the 33 Deg C heat (I know - not that hot to some) the oil was so hot it could be smelt when I stopped. I never really saw the need for an oil cooler, but in the hot climates it is looking like a wise idea. If it works out to extend the oil life of some the expensive oils that many use, then surely fitting one is a worthwhile gain.

Nige, will you be able to get before and after data?
 
A lot of Damage to oil likely happens in the head where it sees high temps. Blow by past the rings, contaminating with gas and combustion gasses, water vapor especially is another factor.
 
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