the lycoming o3202b in my 7gcbc runs very low oil temps. Todays oat is 40, i was cruising at 75%power and the oil temp is 130 f, cht's average 250 f. I have checked my oil temp gauge by putting the sender in boiling water, it checked out ok. Even when the oat is 80 f it only runs oil temps of 160 to 170. Last winter with a oat of zero F with the oil cooler taped over completely it would only reach an oil temp of 140. I should not have to tape off part of the cooler to get the oil temp to 180 with an oat of 80. Anybody have any ideas

Actually, my experience with Citabrias is precisely that you have to put some tape over the cooler to get oil temps up to 180 in those kinds of ambient temperatures. Remember, these things were designed to remain within acceptable temperatures in very high heat. Like VERY high heat during testing.

Just stick a line of duct tape on the cooler and get on with life.

MTV

Just a suggestion to use "aluminum foil" tape instead of "duct tape"... It blocks air just as efficiently, and does not leave behind the sticky residue that collects dust and dirt that might block your cooler when you need it...

I'm talking about this kind, which is available in the Aviation Supply department at your local big box store.