Jimmy Holmes replied on 22/01/2017 21:32
Posted on 22/01/2017 21:32
I purchased new Skoda Octavia 2L diesel 18 months ago to tow Bailey Ranger 500/5 (MTPLM 1180 kgs). Tows really well with exception that oil temperature gauge shows oil exceeding 125 degrees Centigrade on 12% incline. Unfortunately Skoda Octavia users manual says it should not exceed 110 degrees. This oil temperature was recorded in uk when ambient temperature was only 20 degrees C. The Sales literature against which I purchased the car said it was capable of pulling a 1600 kgs caravan up a 12% incline.
After 18 months of protracted discussions with Skoda UK they have no solution and they do not offer an alternative oil cooler for towing. After some investigation with other Volkswagon Group 2L diesel engines and all Skoda 2L diesel engines the overheating of the oil is common throughout the range when towing caravans.
I discussed the problem with Castrol oil company whoSE oil the VAG group recommend. They said it should not exceed 110 degrees centigrade otherwise engine bearing wear will occur.
So if you are towing with 2L Skoda, Volkswagon, Audi, Seat engines you are likely to experience overheating of the engine oil when towing in ambient temperatures above 20 degrees centigrade.
The sad thing is that I towed the same caravan for 5 years with my old Skoda Octavia 2L diesel which did not have an oil temperature gauge. I don't know if the oil overheated or not, although the oil cooler was larger and different design.
in fact I've yet to own a car with such a gauge. You're lucky these days to even get coolant temp gauge, I have one, but I've to search for it 
Jimmy Holmes
Caravanner