So, let’s put some (completely made up) numbers to this.
Here is a list of the viscosities recommended by Champion. Yes, I’m aware 0w-20 isn’t on this list. lol
View attachment 197923
So, with that in mind, let’s take my report earlier of an oil temp of 195f (90C) at 103f ambient temp with a 50% load. I think it’s reasonable to say I had the engine warmed up but not too hot, even in that kind of ambient heat.
If champion says I can use a 30 or 40wt oil at those temps we can graph the viscosity of those oils and get an approx viscosity range to stay between.
I used the Widman calculator (does he still come around here?), and inputted some M1 flavors and their respective 40c and 100c viscosities.
M1 AFE 0w-16 (because I live on the wild side)
M1 EP 5w-20 (have this in the garage)
M1 EP 5w-30
M1 FS 5w-40
From what I see, the 30 and 40wt oils have a viscosity of 12.65 and 16.59cSt respectively at 90C. So let’s shoot for a range of 12 to 17. It may very well be ok to use a wider viscosity range, but for now let’s stick with this.
View attachment 197922
At 25% load and low ambient temps, I’m anticipating an oil temp of 140f (60C) max. But, very likely less than that based on DNewton3’s reports above.
At that temp, every oil listed (even the 0w-16) is outside of my haphazardly chosen viscosity range of 12-17cSt (although probably not to any catastrophic consequence).
To end this madness, I’ll just say I’m doing some testing the first night it gets cold, and will report back with my findings.
I think in cold weather its ok, i just don't see any advantage to doing it. You are in Texas, you may see single digit temps. IF you don't need the genset, youll have to dump it in the summer.To much thinking about it. Put oil in it and run it. If it has a low oil level switch it may trip even with a light weight oil. Run it on idle till it warms a little then go.
I put oil in mine and it may sit a year or 2 ( i crank it every 3 months and run it) but its ready to go whether its 10f or 100f. I use a stout, high TBN 5w30 and forget about it.
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