2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Running without fan

[Nick2]

Hey guys,



While doing my 3gsk install I noticed that I could turn my engine over with the fan. I figure the clutch is locked up solid - the fan is especially audible on downshifts and when I buzz it to 3000rpm. I priced a new clutch at $110. Im thinking it would be cheaper, more fuel efficient, and quieter if I remove the stock fan and replace it with an electric fan (or just run fanless for a while). For the books, I don't really tow anything and winter is approaching.



Thanks for any input, Nick

 

[AKAMAC]

There was a member up in your area that wrote something up about this. You can do it without any problems, just keep an eye on your gauge when in heavy traffic on hot days, towing or hot rodding.

 

[Cooker]

There are several members who run fanless in the winter, myself included. The I have run fanless up to 65 degress while towing 2000lbs without any problems. The only thing you need to be cautious of it letting the truck idle for any length of time, the amount of time depends on the air temp.



I say pull the fan off for the winter and deal with it next April.

 

[gbm]

Nick2,

Before I installed a Horton fan clutch, I used to run fanless in the winter. Other than noted above, the only issue I found was when I used the defrost. With defrost on, you are running your A/C compressor. Pressures can get pretty high without airflow over the condenser. Just one more thing to consider.

Geoff

 

[Nick2]

aright guys, sounds like a plan... more money in my pocket - for important things (like that F-in hubcap that fell off after my hub install :{ ). Hopefully the fan will pop right off with cookers fan clutch wrench ... Ill let you know what kind of difference I hear/feel.



thanks again, Nick

 

[Jeff H]

I've gone with out a fan last winter. I took it off early in the fall. I drove through the twin cities in 80 degrees that way. Don't do that pulling any thing heavy. I didn't notice any difference in my mileage.

I installed a hayden fan clutch last spring. Good top of the line product. I don't reacall what I paid for it. But it was under a 100 bucks. Got it at Bumper to bumper.

I think the next mod will be an electric fan.

 

[JohnE]

Nick;

Fanless is great in the winter. Less noise and cold air through the engine compartment. I think JJW-ND went fanless the entire summer. I normally pull the fan in November and re-install in April or May.



You really have to remember to NOT put the climate control into A/C operation mode. That will really make the engine temp climb, plus not good on the A/C system.



I disabled my automatic A/C operation. Pre 98's have that option.



Your best bet for area BOMBers is up in the Twin Cities. Josh Peters recently established a TDR chapter and they are an active bunch. I join them when I can make the 4 hour trek down. I usually install a GSK or something when I get down. Just look for the butt in the air at an event. It might be me.



Cooker;

Fanless? I thought you picked up a Horton unit.

 

[Cooker]

Cooker;

Fanless? I thought you picked up a Horton unit.

You caught me Yes I do have a Horton on the truck which I installed last fall. However the previous two winters before that I did run fanless. Running a Horton is sort of like running fanless anyway right

 

[Nick2]

fans out... . truck is a lot more quiet, and revs noticably easier to 3k. I would reccomend this 'mod' to anyone with a locked up clutch fan. Also the temp guage hasn't run any higher than it did with the fan in.



ps... cooker if you read this, PM me the address for the KDP jig please.



thanks, Nick

 

[vssman]

Last winter I took the fan off and ran without any problem at all. Never over 190°. Sooo, late this past spring I decided to do away with the mechanical fan all together. I put in two electrics off of an old 89 park ave. Chrysler has some that will fit too. Result is nice ice cold air at stop lights - never any temps over 190°. One thing, I don't tow. Total cost was under $100. 00. Most expensive part was the thermostat to turn the fan on & off.

 

[HEMI®Dart]

Fan is off for the 9th winter. Pulled A/C clutch relay at the same time. This will get me about 1-1. 5+ MPG gain. Have not overheated in 8 years.



cons:



That sinking/lump in the throat feeling when the traffic is bumper-to-bumper . :-laf

 

[BigPapa]

Where can a man buy a Horton clutch and how much do they run?



Thanks,



Scott

 

[Vaughn MacKenzie]

I used to run fanless in the winter, but after overheating it pretty good one warm January day I decided it wasn't for me. It was close to 70 and it nearly hit the red zone climbing a moderate grade near Walla Walla with my '01.

 

[Cooker]

Where can a man buy a Horton clutch and how much do they run?

The Horton clutch is still available but unfortunately the wiring harness and fan blade are no longer available.