2000SForce

iv only been chipped during 30* and colder and only see 225 maybe 230 at the most

RKA

So I would take a look at the oil cooler first (which may be where your mechanic is going to look for the blockage).

Here's the thing...under mild driving conditions, I'm not sure the oil cooler needs to do much to keep oil temps in line (I'm not sure). So this may not explain the rise in oil temps. Still worth checking out/replacing the oil cooler.

Don't forget, we're assuming the temp sensor for the oil is accurate.

quickaudi:STFA

Here's why I ask. I did the timing belt/water pump/thermostat, and my oil temperatures haven't been as high as they were. Ambient temperature hasn't changed much. I fixed a few oil leaks while I was at it. I figure something was going bad and we replaced it, therefore the engine is running back at proper efficiency.

amiam

the water temp is past 12:00 one and two notches to the right, again - very mild driving and not for long even.

sounds like i need some real work -- both water and oil are hot, soon after starting the car and driving it for just a little while.

coolant circulation, bad thermostat, timing belt - all possible causes - since i'm at 83k maybe i just need to bite the bullet now and replace everything nearby since the whole front needs to come off anyway?

also, took temp on the radiator. Facing the car, left side was cool 90* (?) and right side was hot 180* ... does this make any sense?

amiam

not so normal -- see above...

RKA

new water pump, thermostat, and while the radiator is out, flush it out and evaluate for possible blockage inside the rad. If it's still good, run water through the back of the radiator to the front to clean road debris out from inside the fins as well.

It's probably just the thermostat stuck partially closed, but it isn't worth beating your head against a wall over. All that stuff needs to be done anyway.

The oil temps are rising as a consequence of the water temps. The oil will come back down once you fix the overheating issue.

amiam

i think that's the way to go -- THANKS for thinking this thru with me!

What should i be looking at costwise?

I appreciate your help.

RKA

labor depends a lot on where you live. DIY is obviously $0 for labor. If a new radiator is required, you can probably source one for about $200 I think. www.purems.com should have (or be able to get) everything you need if you decide to DIY.

quickaudi:STFA

Bam, I was right again!