The smog test for diesels in Europe consists of running the engine at maximum speed unloaded (that is about 5000 rpm) for a couple of seconds and to measure the opacity of the exhaust gas. This test may only be done by law if the oil temperature is above 60 degrees C, because at that temperature the dopes in the oil are active. The viscosity of the oil doesn't change that.

The current plan is to use a custom oil pan and notch the crossmember for clearance and use the stock oil filter housing so this question will likely no longer be an issue.


Thanks to all for their good thinking and comments. It has been illuminating!.)

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.

ive currently got no oil thermostat plumbed in on my van, and the biggest thing I notice is the whole engine seems to run a little cooler, more around 160-170F, where formerly it ran 180-190 typically. Its hard to specifically place this on the oil system, as the radiator is slightly larger, but it could have an impact.

I figured it was ok as without the stock oil filter im missing a large volume sump of oil, the volume of which exceeds my aftermarket cooler and lines, so I didn't think it would run over cool. I don't have an oil temp gauge yet though

I did buy an external oil thermostat that has JIC fittings on it, so it would be pretty easy to sort of make the stock arrangement all aftermarket parts and spaghetti if you absolutely need to

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What is this?

I read to the 4th page that bob the Oil guys thread. He goes along somewhat with the Euro test. He has that the Oil is designed to lube the best when the Engine is Hot; or at least that is what I got from what He said.
He said you need Oil Flow to lubricate and that thick Oil does not flow as well so it does not lubricate as well.

I was trying to contrast that with the older USA made Cars in the 1960s where People out here in Southern CA often used 30 wt Oil or a minimum 20wt with Engines that had max Coolant temps of 180.
Of course no Engine Oil Cooler.
But, then I also remembered that the clearances on the Rod and Main Bearings was larger then it is now. I am guessing that would allow thicker Oil to Flow as it is supposed to.

Since I have been a Member of this forum I have learned a lot about Filters, Oil and lubrication.
Gone are the days when I just buy whatever Oil Filter and Oil is on Sale like I used to.

After reading the Oil Guy's comments on Synthetic Oil after I use up My Dino Oil I might Switch to Synthetic Oil.

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84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel