morcav
Registered Member
Is the engine fan supposed to be on from the time the truck starts to the time I shut it off, even if it's cold?
CK5
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My fan is on!!!!!????
- Thread starter morcav
- Start date
BKinzey
1/2 ton status
Engine fan
The radiator fan, yes, if they are electric radiator fans, no. The vent fan for in the cab? Well, maybe. At some point, in the 80's I believe, "flow-through" vent systems appeared. Due to a fear of carbon monoxide poisoning you can't fully close the vents so there is always some fresh air circulating.
If you hear the fan running though your switch may be bad. Pull it out, clean it up, and take a look at it. You might be able to fix it or at least make the decision if you want to replace it.
The radiator fan, yes, if they are electric radiator fans, no. The vent fan for in the cab? Well, maybe. At some point, in the 80's I believe, "flow-through" vent systems appeared. Due to a fear of carbon monoxide poisoning you can't fully close the vents so there is always some fresh air circulating.If you hear the fan running though your switch may be bad. Pull it out, clean it up, and take a look at it. You might be able to fix it or at least make the decision if you want to replace it.
Can Can
Pusher Man
If you're talking about your cooling fan, no, it's not supposed to be engaged all the time. The clutch is thermostatically controlled, and should only engage when a certain temperature is reached.
I'm willing to bet the fan clutch is shot. FWIW, it's a really simple fix. The part is relatively cheap, although I recommend that you go with a GM fan clutch(the aftermarket ones don't last near as long). You can actually install the new fan clutch with the pulley and belts in place if you're not too rammy.
Keep in mind that the fan clutch DOES engage during cold starts to add a little load to engine to help it warm up faster during the fast idle cycle, but it should disengage after a minute or two.
I'm willing to bet the fan clutch is shot. FWIW, it's a really simple fix. The part is relatively cheap, although I recommend that you go with a GM fan clutch(the aftermarket ones don't last near as long). You can actually install the new fan clutch with the pulley and belts in place if you're not too rammy.
Keep in mind that the fan clutch DOES engage during cold starts to add a little load to engine to help it warm up faster during the fast idle cycle, but it should disengage after a minute or two.
morcav
Registered Member
So, even if I have a serpintine belt system my fan is not supposed to be on at all times?, at what temp do they ussually engage?, and is this enough of a problem that it needs to be fixed asap? Thanks
pvfjr
1/2 ton status
No, doesn't need to be fixed asap. Some trucks actually had fixed fans (mine used too) that don't even have a clutch. So they never shut off. I did the windstar electric fan conversion though, and have been really happy with it. I get much quicker warm-ups and more stable temps all around.
Those engine driven fans always turn some - at least the mechanical/thermal clutch types. The clutch does have an effect, especially at higher rpms. A good test is to turn the fan by hand with the engine off. It should be easy to turn when the engine is cold. When the engine is hot, it should be a lot harder. I've never seen a system with an electric clutch, but I suppose it's possible.
You can always replace the clutch.
You can always replace the clutch.
