Fan clutch ~ So what's the difference?

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

May 12, 2006 | 08:24 AM

VaporLockd

Thread Starter

Intermediate

Joined: Sep 2004

Posts: 39

Likes: 0

Fan clutch ~ So what's the difference?

Mine is screaming to be replaced on my '70 BB. I've looked around a bit and have seen prices ranging from $30 to $200. I'd love to go with Spals but just can't swing it right now so I'll be putting a clutch back on. Any ideas why there is such a price difference and suggestions as to which to go with?

Thanks in advance.

May 12, 2006 | 08:31 AM

S489

Burning Brakes

Joined: Feb 2006

Posts: 1,024

Likes: 1

From: AL

what little i know:
A - the cheaper ones are basically a fluid coupling; always coupled
B - the more expensive have a bi-metallic coil on front that firms or loosens the coupling; when not needed they don't need as much hp
vettes came with type B. if you try A, it might work and it might run hot or hotter. i might give it a try since they are so cheap while saving for the spals. flex fans just make a lot of noise, not as good overall.

May 12, 2006 | 08:34 AM

carbster09

Burning Brakes

Joined: Oct 2002

Posts: 914

Likes: 14

From: Aberdeen, Scotland

Get a Heavy Duty Fan Clutch

I got a HD clutch from Haydon...for something like $65. Its better than OEM and you can't tell its not factory. I also had an NOS unit for ~ $130. I too would like a dual Spal set up but want a factory look.

cabster09

May 12, 2006 | 11:36 AM

jdmick

Safety Car

Joined: Oct 2004

Posts: 3,725

Likes: 5

From: Minnesota

Quote:

Originally Posted by carbster09

I got a HD clutch from Haydon...for something like $65. Its better than OEM and you can't tell its not factory.

Same here.

May 12, 2006 | 02:53 PM

griffths

Racer

Joined: Dec 2002

Posts: 421

Likes: 2

From: Long Grove, IL

Quote:

Originally Posted by VaporLockd

Mine is screaming to be replaced on my '70 BB. ...

Thanks in advance.

If the fan clutch is the original one, make sure that you keep it since they are quite valuable to the "number matching" crowd. If you are one of those such people you can have your clutch rebuilt to like new including all of the markings as original. Not cheap or fast but still an option

Regards,

Jay

May 12, 2006 | 07:14 PM

vett79

Racer

Joined: Aug 2000

Posts: 364

Likes: 3

From: Van Wert Ohio

I switched to a flex fan a number of years ago because I couldn't keep my L48 cool with the AC on. Now I'm tired of the noise. What Hayden part number is the heavy duty. I see Advanced Auto sells them. I'm ready to try something better than stock.

May 12, 2006 | 08:52 PM

bobs77vet

Race Director

Joined: Sep 2004

Posts: 11,874

Likes: 263

From: Arlington Va Current ride 04 vert, previous vettes: 69 vert, 77 resto mod

mine was from NAPA

May 12, 2006 | 10:43 PM

VaporLockd

Thread Starter

Intermediate

Joined: Sep 2004

Posts: 39

Likes: 0

I ordered mine today through Advance Auto. It is actually from Parts America. I called CA & spoke to Hayden to be sure I was getting what I needed. Their part number (and Advance/Parts America) is 2799 for the heavy duty. It's $59.99 with free shipping.

Thanks guys for your help.