Dennis, I sure hope I have offended no one. Who didn't deserve it I mean.
By equilibrium I mean as warm as it's gonna get. In the winter time here our temps are fairly mild (just occasionally in the 20s on a few mornings), and my exterior thermostat does not open between October and April. For most of the trip to Doug's and back Saturday, the needle stayed below the first line. I say "big deal." I don't really care how cool the oil is, but even at these times the oil is decidedly "hot." I think the temperatures of the engine parts, and how they fit together is the major issue. I think they get hot enough for flogging any time they are warmed up for 10 or 20 minutes. That was my point. After 20 minutes, cruise at 130 if you want. Even after five minutes, I believe those engine parts are fitting together nicely. I think the engine heats up before the oil, but that the main engine parts that need heating (case, bearings) are not hot enough for the whip in just a block. MHO.
I don't think the valve lash closes at operating temp. I believe there is still a gap.