Getting the engine warm

[n6346m]

I Have my L-2B on skis and flew it last week on a very cold day. I must admit that the cabin heater actually worked at keeping my left foot warm. My concern is that the engine doesn't warm up. I pre-heated it ok and went flying for over an hour. The oil temp gauge never got off the peg and right after landing I pulled the dipstick and felt the oil and it was barely warm.
I do have the air intake for cooling the oil tank blocked off, but since the engine sticks out in the air (L-2B) ala J3, I don't know what else to do to heat things up. I understand that the Piper guys have mods and plates to put on to slow and limit the air flow so that the engine will warm up. Any help out there?
Bob

[M Towsley]

Re: Getting the engine warm

Bob,

Though I have the same problem and can empathize, the only thing I did was get the oil tank cover. I haven't had a chance to really check it out yet but I don't think it will make a huge difference. Anyway, you may want to wait for an answer here, though this question was asked awhile back.. During WWII the ground personnel would place homemade plates over the front cylinders to block the air flow. (This was on the Piper L-4's in theater and against regulations). I have a couple of pictures in a book showing this. The Piper guys should know what to do. Good luck!

[high time cub]

Re: Getting the engine warm

Hi Bob,
Asking an A-65 to keep the oil WARM, is tantamount to asking a radial to keep the oil INSIDE!
Been flying "High Time" for 29 winter seasons in upstate N.Y. .... I had covers on the oil tank and induction tubes the first winter (helped a little) and haven't bothered the last 28 years.
Other than closing the air inlet on front cowl and opening the blow hole at the top of the breather line, I just fly it and always carry power until I'm back on the ground.
Most of the time, the needle barely moves off the peg...... I flew on a -30 degree day one time (I was much younger) and imagine that the needle and peg had a good battle!
Jim

[n6346m]

Re: Getting the engine warm

Thanks for the info guys. I do have the induction tube covers and oil tank cover on the engine and here in Alaska they stay on year-round.
Bob