Hi,
I got a question about thermal health of LA small blocks.
I currently have a 344 on the dyno. Nothing serious, 9.5cr, 302 heads, comp 264HR cam, headers.

Currently it has no oil cooler, just stock pan. The water temp is set at 176°F at the water neck and the dyno system cools it down so it stays there in any condition, no problem at all.

When holding it steady at 3000 rpm and 25% throttle opening I easily get oil temps of 260°F + . Did not even attempt to run close to full throttle. Is this normal?!? I will add an oil cooler before going any further, but just wanted to ask if there is something wrong with the motor! How would they ever hold up if I hold them wide open on the road for a a couple of minutes. Maybe this is a very German question (Autobahn), but I am just shocked about the rise in oil temperature. Thought the water jacket would cool it down with no block fill.

Thanks
Flo