What is normal operating temperature?

[don hopkins]

Hi,
Anybody know what normal operating temperature is and where the needle on the gauge should be pointing (9, 10, 11 o'clock)? Is there a gauge for the 912 with actual numbers?

Don

[Jaems]

Yes the 911 gauge has the numbers.

The best running temp that gives the most longevity for the engine is 180 degrees F. or 80 C. This is the picture of the C gauge. Where the 80 degree is on the gauge is where the needle should be on the normal 912 combo gauge. Halfway is about 212 F and 100 C anything above this is a little too warm for the 912 engine. Some think that it is alright as long as it stays in the green. When the factory gave this recommendation on heat range was when they thought getting 25,000 miles was about normal for the engine. They were also very cheap to rebuild during that era, about $2-300 not the $8-16K today.

If your car is running too hot. There are several thing you can do. Check the timing, install a flow through oil filter kit, the aluminum oil cooler, and or a external front oil cooler.

[cgarr]

Mine gets just off the first white block but I also am running an extra large sump.

Here are the temps and location printed on the inside: 00c 120c 138.4c The red line is from 140c 151.2c