[AlexGTT]

Originally Posted by cantfind1

Thermostat is fitted in the oil filter housing, I have removed mine and replaced with a oil diverter valve........allows 100% of the oil to pass to the cooler 100% of the time....

similar to this

http://store.bimmerworld.com/e36e46-...alve-p980.aspx

For most I would not advise this. Much better to retain standard stat for road and track use. I'd only consider diverter for race application.

The big cooler I use has the same dimension pipe internals, connections, etc. so oil pressure is not affected. Only difference is a slight drop in oil level after dealer oil changes. This is only noted after full warm up with thermostatic valve opened. About 1/2 litre extra required to maintain correct sump level AFTER the cooler circuit has opened.

My interim oil changes at Simpson's include a run to warm to temperature, re-check level and top up to account for it.