Fan Clutch Replacement
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 34
Likes: 0
Fan Clutch Replacement
'73 BB w/ A/C
I need to replace the fan and fan clutch. Can this be done without removing the shroud and if so how? If not, any suggestion on how to remove the shroud? Need the instructions for a Rookie.
I need to replace the fan and fan clutch. Can this be done without removing the shroud and if so how? If not, any suggestion on how to remove the shroud? Need the instructions for a Rookie.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 893
Likes: 7
From: Orange Park Florida
Not sure about the big block, but I've replaced several on the 350. See if you can remove the clutch in two stages - disassemble the fan blades from the clutch, then remove the clutch from the water pump. Should be able to replace without removing the shroud. You need small hands!
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 31,335
Likes: 4,451
From: Westminster Maryland
Hi R,
The CHASSIS SERVICE MANUAL indicates the water pump can be replaced with the shroud in place so I'd think the fan clutch can be removed too.
I'd follow Jim's advice of taking the fan off first and then the clutch.
Regards,
Alan
The CHASSIS SERVICE MANUAL indicates the water pump can be replaced with the shroud in place so I'd think the fan clutch can be removed too.
I'd follow Jim's advice of taking the fan off first and then the clutch.
Regards,
Alan
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37,637
Likes: 3,118
From: Crossville TN
Fan and clutch can be removed as an assembly by removing the 4 retaining nuts and lockwashers from the studs on the water pump drive flange. Then you can pull the fan/clutch off the pilot hub and pull it out of the shroud...being very careful to not hit the radiator with the fan blades. It's a good idea to put a piece of corrugated cardboard behind the radiator when you do this.
Have you 'tested' the function of the clutch assembly? To do so, you need to run on the highway for a bit (to get the engine hot), stop the car (with engine still running), lift the hood, then turn off the engine while watching the fan. If the fan stops turning within a couple of rotations, the clutch is working fine. If it just keeps spinning (5 or more revs), then the clutch has lost its ability to engage the fan.
Have you 'tested' the function of the clutch assembly? To do so, you need to run on the highway for a bit (to get the engine hot), stop the car (with engine still running), lift the hood, then turn off the engine while watching the fan. If the fan stops turning within a couple of rotations, the clutch is working fine. If it just keeps spinning (5 or more revs), then the clutch has lost its ability to engage the fan.
