Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Thermostat or Fan Clutch

[Matt42]

Yesterday, while southbound out of Camp Verde, Arizona up the long grade, my truck heated up to the far end of the normal range. I was pulling a 6K lb TT, and it was only 95 outside. Not even hot. I couldn't hear the fan clutch kick on until I headed down the other side, toward the garlic farm. I was maintaining 55-60 mph in 4th gear. Once the fan kicked on, the temperature dropped to normal, and stayed that way until I got home, and the clutch seemed to cycle normally.



I had gone the other way, up the Black Canyon grade at 108 the prior week, and the coolant temperature barely cracked midrange. I kept EGTs under 1000 both ways.



I figure it could be a sticky thermostat that didn't feed enough coolant into the radiator to heat the fan clutch spring, or a lazy fan clutch. Any thoughts? The thermostat is 2 years old, and a Cummins. The fan clutch is OEM, with 66K miles on it.



Is the fan clutch a Cummins or a MoPar part?



cheers.

 

[bmoeller]

Check to see if air is getting through the coolers OK. Also, see if there is any oil leaking out of the fan clutch around the metal coil that is in the front center of the fan clutch.



Assuming the coolers are clean, I think it is the fan clutch. Should've kicked in sooner. Should be able to get a fan clutch from NAPA too.

 

[RM]

had a 96 that was heating up and found the fan clutch had oil baked on. the oil was from inside of fan clutch. took off and cleaned put back on and had no problems with over heating. sold to a friend and 100k miles later still no problem also cleaned up radiator core real well with fan out hope this helps.

 

[Matt42]

Check to see if air is getting through the coolers OK. Also, see if there is any oil leaking out of the fan clutch around the metal coil that is in the front center of the fan clutch.



Assuming the coolers are clean, I think it is the fan clutch. Should've kicked in sooner. Should be able to get a fan clutch from NAPA too.

#3

ronmonical



Online

Join Date: Apr 2003

Location: castaic california

Posts: 75



had a 96 that was heating up and found the fan clutch had oil baked on. the oil was from inside of fan clutch. took off and cleaned put back on and had no problems with over heating. sold to a friend and 100k miles later still no problem also cleaned up radiator core real well with fan out hope this helps.

__________________





I'll have a look this weekend when I can put an EZ-Up over the cab.