fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

Mr.Scary · 09-12-2009, 04:54 PM

Hey guys i have question. I have a DD 84" swb has small block in it with a cam, headers, alum intake, etc, and it has a fan clutch in it right now and there is nothing wrong with it as a matter of fact it runs really cool at about 160/180 in this 100+ degree weather we have here in texas but i was woundering should i switch to a electric fan instead? I hear there are plenty of benifits to switching but don't know if these are fact or fiction.I already have everything to do it like the fan and thermostat relay but i hear some people say if the fan clutch is doing the job then don't mess with it. Any thoughts, suggestions or opinions would b much appreciated

menace121978 · 09-12-2009, 06:38 PM

my opinion is switch it... you have the stuff so just do it!

Mr.Scary · 09-12-2009, 06:45 PM

Thanks 4 tha reply. I 've been waiting 2 talk 2 u 4 a while now, I seen ur build thread and its awesome!!! very inspiring I really like all that work u have done to it!! ANyways so u think i should change it?? I 've never done that b4 is it easy? also i have 2 separate electric fans if i did switch it could i hook them both up or just one? and if so how?? Anyone????

Thanks
In advance

menace121978 · 09-12-2009, 08:27 PM

thanks for the kind words man. as for your questions im not too sure exactly how to wire it up. but i do know if the kit has 2 fans 1 is always on at a certain degree and both go on when its hot (certain degree) or when the a/c kicks on.

i think no one has replied yet because their waiting for more info... like is it a kit or did you take it out of another car, etc...

my reasons for swapping would mostly be because i hate the sound they make. and without it that relieves some drag on the pullies (maybe couple h.p. increase) and relieves some stress on the water pump...

gchemist · 09-12-2009, 09:22 PM

Dual fan it!!

Use 454 radiator for added cooling.

Cherub · 09-12-2009, 09:57 PM

Ive yet to see proof that electric fans eliviates that much drag on the motor or that hp is increase. So i would say if it aint broke dont fix it. and yes one fan would run off a thermastat and the other off the a/c on.

87Bob · 09-12-2009, 10:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gchemist

Dual fan it!!

Use 454 radiator for added cooling.

What is your fan set up out of? Looks good!

Pyrotechnic · 09-12-2009, 11:24 PM

Electric fans do help free up power because they are only on when they need to be. The temperature probe for the fans is usually placed in the engine coolant which means instant response when cooling is needed. They can also help your AC work better because they respond instantly and start cooling the condenser when the AC turns on.

dammitmitchell · 09-12-2009, 11:37 PM

check mine out, i'll take more pitures when it stops raining out here for about 4 days... so yeah.....

Justins76 · 09-13-2009, 05:37 PM

I'm going with a Mark VIII fan. If you do alot of towing then a mech fan with a hd clutch is the way to go.

**N2TRUX** · 09-13-2009, 07:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cherub

Ive yet to see proof that electric fans eliviates that much drag on the motor or that hp is increase. So i would say if it ain't broke dont fix it.

I can prove that electric fans are less parasitic, but I agree that "If it ain't broke, don't fix it till it is"...

Mr.Scary · 09-14-2009, 01:32 AM

ok everyone sorry i havent replied Im having some computer problems.... anyways my set up is a universal 16" s blade electric fan with a ajustable electronic thermostat switch and relay. Also had another quick question 4 u guys if 4 some reason that is not enough 2 cool off tha motor i have another 12" s blade fan, could i hook that up 2 a toggle switch and route that into tha cab 4 a little extra cooling power only when it is needed???? or is that a dumb idea? just woundering.... any thoughts

I knew i was gonna get a lot of mixed answers on whether i should do it or not... and im still not sure cause i can c both sides of it but, if i were to say my radiator started leaking pretty bad on me today would that change anyone's mind or make any difference at all????? anyone

Cherub · 09-14-2009, 07:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by N2TRUX

I can prove that electric fans are less parasitic, but I agree that "If it ain't broke, don't fix it till it is"...

sweet post it up.

yellowGT · 09-14-2009, 09:29 AM

I havent installed mine in my truck yet but my brother put some duals in his 88 and he said he can definately feel the difference. I havent driven his truck since he put the fans in but i will. I let you know first hand.

Mr.Scary · 09-14-2009, 11:12 AM

Cool!!!! thanks sounds good i would like to hear some feed back of someone that just did it. Also N2Trux is it possible for u 2 post the information that you have about electric fans be less parasidic???

Thanks for all tha input guys
please keep it coming

gchemist · 09-14-2009, 09:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 87Bob

What is your fan set up out of? Looks good!

I'm using a pair of LS1 fans out of a 2000 Camaro. Did you see the rest of my pictures?

Good reading info: http://bertok.us/agreif/fans/fanstech.htm
http://www.chevytalk.org/fusionbb/sh...hp?tid/194489/

The only better stock fan is a dual speed Mark VIII.
http://www.fordmuscle.com/archives/2...cfan/index.php

87Bob · 09-15-2009, 04:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dammitmitchell

check mine out, i'll take more pitures when it stops raining out here for about 4 days... so yeah.....

What is your fan set up off of?

gchemist · 09-15-2009, 05:47 AM

The picture has a Mark VIII Ford fan bolted to the radiator support.

87Bob · 09-15-2009, 06:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gchemist

The picture has a Mark VIII Ford fan bolted to the radiator support.

Got any more pictures? It looks like it was made for that radiator! How much space is there between the fan and the water pump? is it a tight fit?

bigblock73 · 09-15-2009, 07:44 AM

I like things simple, I have always run clutch fans on my trucks. Never had a problem overheating, never let me down, and don't think I would notice that much of a difference if I switched to electric. Those who want more power, must not think about the drag A/C and alternator accessories cost, not to mention all the other do-dads they add to their trucks (that also add weight and slow it down)....but yet they keep those. Just my .02

swb85 · 09-15-2009, 09:28 AM

When I switched from a clutch fan to a 16" electric s-blade my fuel economy increased by 15%. I can sit in traffic in 100*F ambient temps with the a/c on high and the coolant temp never goes above 195*.

Mr.Scary · 09-15-2009, 09:48 AM

WOW!!! thanks for all the great responses guys. gchemist that LS1 setup you said you got in urs must b SICK!!!

I bet that it works extremly good, where did u get it from the local junk yard or wut?? Also thanks for tha links as well very useful info. bigblock73 I get wut ur sayin and my fan clutch has served me well since ive had it too, no overheats yet in this hot texas weather and i hit a good 30 to 40 minutes of traffic goin into work and leaving work everyday but like i said earlier my radiator has started to lead badly so while i was changing that radiator i figure i got tha stuff to switch it over so i might as well. swb85 man ur set up sounds awesome!! do you contribute the way ur truck cools to ur electric fan??? if so then i need to find out where u got it from cause it sounds like it works great!!

I would like to thank everyone for giving their feedback on this topic it is all very much appreciated!!!!

swb85 · 09-15-2009, 12:14 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr.Scary

swb85 man ur set up sounds awesome!! do you contribute the way ur truck cools to ur electric fan??? if so then i need to find out where u got it from cause it sounds like it works great!!

It's not so much just the fan, but the system as a whole. I have a big block sized aluminum radiator with 2 rows of 1" tubes, 16" puller fan w/aluminum shroud, high flow water pump and high flow thermostat. Putting an electric fan(s) on a cooling system that has inadequacies elsewhere will do you very little (if any) good.

Mr.Scary · 09-15-2009, 01:44 PM

OOOOO ok then well thats sounds about right with all that stuff on there no wonder it stays so cool. quick question swb85 or anybody on here for that matter.... if my original copper radiator has just started leaking on me recently and its a hair pin hole that is just below the radiator cap sholuld i take it to the radiator shop and have it cleaned and fixed?? or should i get a new plastic one from the parts store?? or should i try to find a big block one from tha local pick and pull??? can anyone tell me what is the best right to go please.........

*nekkidhillbilly* · 09-15-2009, 04:28 PM

when then clutch is locked you will notice a big difference unlocked its minimal

ford 3.8 tarus fans move the most air but on a sbc a set of ls1 camaro lt1 camaro etc will be fine and cheap

i swapped my 01 4.8 silverado to electric it was cheap improved power and mpg

09-12-2009, 04:54 PM	#1
Mr.Scary Project Optimus Prime Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 346	fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: Hey guys i have question. I have a DD 84" swb has small block in it with a cam, headers, alum intake, etc, and it has a fan clutch in it right now and there is nothing wrong with it as a matter of fact it runs really cool at about 160/180 in this 100+ degree weather we have here in texas but i was woundering should i switch to a electric fan instead? I hear there are plenty of benifits to switching but don't know if these are fact or fiction.I already have everything to do it like the fan and thermostat relay but i hear some people say if the fan clutch is doing the job then don't mess with it. Any thoughts, suggestions or opinions would b much appreciated __________________ 84 SWB work in progress 89 burb 1500 (parts pig) LOL 08 ford focus (I know, I know) Wifes car "I said it b4 and i'll say it agian wiring is my worst enemy":devil:

09-12-2009, 06:38 PM	#2
menace121978 Registered User Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: orangevale, ca Posts: 3,626	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: my opinion is switch it... you have the stuff so just do it! __________________ "Dennis the Menace" 1978 Silverado (2wd, 1/2 ton, short bed)complete nut & bolt frame off restomod LQ9/4L80E MY LS SWAP/FRAME OFF BUILD BOOK 2006 TBSS way too much to list

09-12-2009, 06:45 PM	#3
Mr.Scary Project Optimus Prime Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 346	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: Thanks 4 tha reply. I 've been waiting 2 talk 2 u 4 a while now, I seen ur build thread and its awesome!!! very inspiring I really like all that work u have done to it!! ANyways so u think i should change it?? I 've never done that b4 is it easy? also i have 2 separate electric fans if i did switch it could i hook them both up or just one? and if so how?? Anyone???? Thanks In advance __________________ 84 SWB work in progress 89 burb 1500 (parts pig) LOL 08 ford focus (I know, I know) Wifes car "I said it b4 and i'll say it agian wiring is my worst enemy":devil:

09-12-2009, 08:27 PM	#4
menace121978 Registered User Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: orangevale, ca Posts: 3,626	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: thanks for the kind words man. as for your questions im not too sure exactly how to wire it up. but i do know if the kit has 2 fans 1 is always on at a certain degree and both go on when its hot (certain degree) or when the a/c kicks on. i think no one has replied yet because their waiting for more info... like is it a kit or did you take it out of another car, etc... my reasons for swapping would mostly be because i hate the sound they make. and without it that relieves some drag on the pullies (maybe couple h.p. increase) and relieves some stress on the water pump... __________________ "Dennis the Menace" 1978 Silverado (2wd, 1/2 ton, short bed)complete nut & bolt frame off restomod LQ9/4L80E MY LS SWAP/FRAME OFF BUILD BOOK 2006 TBSS way too much to list

09-12-2009, 09:22 PM	#5
gchemist BAD BOW-Silverado XST Join Date: May 2000 Location: Senior Member from Austin, TX Posts: 6,431	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: Dual fan it!! Use 454 radiator for added cooling. __________________ Gerardo a.k.a. Mad Chemist Silverado XST videos

09-12-2009, 09:57 PM	#6
Cherub Registered User Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Houston Posts: 970	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: Ive yet to see proof that electric fans eliviates that much drag on the motor or that hp is increase. So i would say if it aint broke dont fix it. and yes one fan would run off a thermastat and the other off the a/c on. __________________ 2014 LTZ Z71 Silverado 82 C15 LQ4/4L80E Conversion 78 Suburban build (SOLD) 83 4x4 Suburban(SOLD) 82 C15 (my first truck)

09-12-2009, 11:24 PM	#8
Pyrotechnic Registered User Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Austin, TX Posts: 3,930	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: Electric fans do help free up power because they are only on when they need to be. The temperature probe for the fans is usually placed in the engine coolant which means instant response when cooling is needed. They can also help your AC work better because they respond instantly and start cooling the condenser when the AC turns on. __________________ 1977 GMC Sierra Grande

09-12-2009, 11:37 PM	#9
dammitmitchell the pollock Join Date: May 2008 Location: abilene, texas Posts: 4,423	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: check mine out, i'll take more pitures when it stops raining out here for about 4 days... so yeah..... __________________ Jack of ALL trades, Master of none.. (but one... procrastination) Army vet 02-08 RIP El Jay! Miss you brother! http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=343538 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=386042

09-13-2009, 05:37 PM	#10
Justins76 OutOfMyMind & I'llNeverKnowWhy Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Another world, some other time Posts: 672	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: I'm going with a Mark VIII fan. If you do alot of towing then a mech fan with a hd clutch is the way to go. __________________ -Justin-Out of my mind and I'll never know why 1976 Chevrolet Silverado C10 350 4bbl / TH350 Big10 longbed 1986 Pontiac Firebird T-Top 5.0L TPI 700R4 WS6 1992 Pontiac Firebird T-Top 5.0L TBI 700R4 My cardomain page I don't like to save, it's more fun to spend!!

09-14-2009, 01:32 AM	#12
Mr.Scary Project Optimus Prime Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 346	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: ok everyone sorry i havent replied Im having some computer problems.... anyways my set up is a universal 16" s blade electric fan with a ajustable electronic thermostat switch and relay. Also had another quick question 4 u guys if 4 some reason that is not enough 2 cool off tha motor i have another 12" s blade fan, could i hook that up 2 a toggle switch and route that into tha cab 4 a little extra cooling power only when it is needed???? or is that a dumb idea? just woundering.... any thoughts I knew i was gonna get a lot of mixed answers on whether i should do it or not... and im still not sure cause i can c both sides of it but, if i were to say my radiator started leaking pretty bad on me today would that change anyone's mind or make any difference at all????? anyone __________________ 84 SWB work in progress 89 burb 1500 (parts pig) LOL 08 ford focus (I know, I know) Wifes car "I said it b4 and i'll say it agian wiring is my worst enemy":devil:

09-14-2009, 09:29 AM	#14
yellowGT Registered User Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Garland, TX Posts: 970	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: I havent installed mine in my truck yet but my brother put some duals in his 88 and he said he can definately feel the difference. I havent driven his truck since he put the fans in but i will. I let you know first hand. __________________ '84 swb chevy '69 swb chevy '68 swb chevy '95 Impala ss-sold '89 chevy crew cab dually 3+3

09-14-2009, 11:12 AM	#15
Mr.Scary Project Optimus Prime Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 346	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: Cool!!!! thanks sounds good i would like to hear some feed back of someone that just did it. Also N2Trux is it possible for u 2 post the information that you have about electric fans be less parasidic??? Thanks for all tha input guys please keep it coming __________________ 84 SWB work in progress 89 burb 1500 (parts pig) LOL 08 ford focus (I know, I know) Wifes car "I said it b4 and i'll say it agian wiring is my worst enemy":devil:

09-15-2009, 05:47 AM	#18
gchemist BAD BOW-Silverado XST Join Date: May 2000 Location: Senior Member from Austin, TX Posts: 6,431	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: The picture has a Mark VIII Ford fan bolted to the radiator support. __________________ Gerardo a.k.a. Mad Chemist Silverado XST videos

09-15-2009, 07:44 AM	#20
bigblock73 yeller Join Date: Oct 2001 Location: Twin Cities Posts: 13,824	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: I like things simple, I have always run clutch fans on my trucks. Never had a problem overheating, never let me down, and don't think I would notice that much of a difference if I switched to electric. Those who want more power, must not think about the drag A/C and alternator accessories cost, not to mention all the other do-dads they add to their trucks (that also add weight and slow it down)....but yet they keep those. Just my .02 __________________ Jeff 73-87.com 73-87.com Facebook page 73-87 cab corner 6x9 speaker brackets for sale 67-72 cab corner speaker brackets for sale 47-54 cab corner speaker brackets for sale

09-15-2009, 09:28 AM	#21
swb85 On a budget like Fred Sanford Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Topeka, KS Posts: 2,031	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: When I switched from a clutch fan to a 16" electric s-blade my fuel economy increased by 15%. I can sit in traffic in 100F ambient temps with the a/c on high and the coolant temp never goes above 195. __________________ '85 Silverado swb: 383 stroker, 10.5:1, vortec heads, 232/238 roller cam, RPM air gap, performer 750 carb, stainless longtubes, 3" duals/super 44's, T56/4.11 383ci build / exterior refresh thread '98 Camaro z28: 370ci twin turbo 370ci build '01 Tahoe LT 4x4: 5.3, longtubes/ory, magnaflow duals, custom tune....wife's DD



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09-15-2009, 09:48 AM	#22
Mr.Scary Project Optimus Prime Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 346	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: WOW!!! thanks for all the great responses guys. gchemist that LS1 setup you said you got in urs must b SICK!!! I bet that it works extremly good, where did u get it from the local junk yard or wut?? Also thanks for tha links as well very useful info. bigblock73 I get wut ur sayin and my fan clutch has served me well since ive had it too, no overheats yet in this hot texas weather and i hit a good 30 to 40 minutes of traffic goin into work and leaving work everyday but like i said earlier my radiator has started to lead badly so while i was changing that radiator i figure i got tha stuff to switch it over so i might as well. swb85 man ur set up sounds awesome!! do you contribute the way ur truck cools to ur electric fan??? if so then i need to find out where u got it from cause it sounds like it works great!! I would like to thank everyone for giving their feedback on this topic it is all very much appreciated!!!! __________________ 84 SWB work in progress 89 burb 1500 (parts pig) LOL 08 ford focus (I know, I know) Wifes car "I said it b4 and i'll say it agian wiring is my worst enemy":devil:

09-15-2009, 01:44 PM	#24
Mr.Scary Project Optimus Prime Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Dallas, TX Posts: 346	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: OOOOO ok then well thats sounds about right with all that stuff on there no wonder it stays so cool. quick question swb85 or anybody on here for that matter.... if my original copper radiator has just started leaking on me recently and its a hair pin hole that is just below the radiator cap sholuld i take it to the radiator shop and have it cleaned and fixed?? or should i get a new plastic one from the parts store?? or should i try to find a big block one from tha local pick and pull??? can anyone tell me what is the best right to go please......... __________________ 84 SWB work in progress 89 burb 1500 (parts pig) LOL 08 ford focus (I know, I know) Wifes car "I said it b4 and i'll say it agian wiring is my worst enemy":devil:

09-15-2009, 04:28 PM	#25
nekkidhillbilly Account Suspended Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: hazard, ky Posts: 1,674	Re: fan clutch or electric fan????:confused: when then clutch is locked you will notice a big difference unlocked its minimal ford 3.8 tarus fans move the most air but on a sbc a set of ls1 camaro lt1 camaro etc will be fine and cheap i swapped my 01 4.8 silverado to electric it was cheap improved power and mpg Last edited by nekkidhillbilly; 09-15-2009 at 04:29 PM.

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