Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Noisy fan clutch

[MAllred]

I noticed the fan clutch rattles like crazy when the temps are below 10F. I'm not sure if it's always done this but couldn't ignore it today! There is some play at the shaft as well. Here's the puzzlement to me--once the motor warms, the rattle and shaft play disappears. Hayden's clutch costs $60 and I'm inclined to change it. Waddaya'll think? Anyone experience this too?

 

[AKDrifter]

With the fan removed you should'nt hear any noise. Pull the fan in Oct. and put it on in late March or something. Engine will warm up faster and a slight throttle responce increase. It's good to see temps of 190 at 0. A little quieter too.

 

[MAllred]

Yep, I'm a rocket scientist. After changing the clutch I was able to narrow the problem to a bad fan idler bearing (behinf the fan pulley). Figures it went at 103,000 - just out of warranty...