I have a (new to me) Sunsation with 496 HO. What is normal Engine Oil temperature range? The oil temperature steadily climbs up to 230 after cruising at 3300-3700 rpms for about 20 minutes. I have been given different answers ranging between 170 and 230. If I increase speed/rpms for even a brief period of time, it will edge past 230 and I immediately cut back . Is this normal? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

I wouldn't worry at all.

They test the oil at 210.

Start worrying big time at 280

Ken

Mine doesnt ever move at 3500 rpms. After running hard for a few minutes it will climb a little. Never saw 230 in 9 years.
No expert but seems like something is up?

Thank you for the feedback so far. Can anyone else provide some insight. I hit 245 degrees on engine oil temp after running at 4000 rpms for a while and water temp is fine. What is normal range for oil temperature. I called Mercruiser and they won't give me an answer/range. Thank you.

Same here...even when I run hard for long distances...I've very seldom if ever get over 185 on temp.. 496 HO MAG. I'm not a motor-head, but 245 seems high to me.

Where and how are you measuring the oil temperature?
Do you have a scan tool and if so what is your water pressure and water temperature from the scan at the same time this is recording a 245 oil temperature?
also where are you boating and what is the water temperature and air temperature you are boating in?

Best Regards,
Ray @ Raylar

Temperature reading of oil (and water) is via dash guage (Livorsi). I get same results in very different conditions (KY & MI). I do notice it seems a little higher in warmer water but not much.

Very seldomly getting over 185 degrees is equally as bad for the motor as 245 imo. You will never get the condensation out of the oil until running 210. Which is why I went with an oil thermostat last year, get's the oil up to 212 then starts using the oil cooler.

Ditto Nothing more aggrivating than milkshake in the oil.

How do I tell if my oil cooler is working (properly)?