How Does a Fan Clutch Work
Intermediate
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 30
Likes: 0
It has a bimetallic spring that when warm, increases the resistance. Put the clutch in the freezer, spin it, then put it in the oven and test it. I wouldn't turn the oven above 200 degrees. I'd also wait until your wife is shopping.
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37,637
Likes: 3,116
From: Crossville TN
Start the engine when cold. Open the hood and shut the engine off while watching the fan. When cold, it should just spin several revolutions before stopping. Then take the car out for a 5 mile jaunt...highway driving, if you can. Keep it running when you get back, open the hood and shut the engine off again. The fan should stop turning in one or two revolutions [indicating the fan is doing its job].
There will be some resistance when turning by hand whether cold or hot...but there will be much more resistance when hot. Checking it 'operationally' is the best way to know whether it's working or not.
There will be some resistance when turning by hand whether cold or hot...but there will be much more resistance when hot. Checking it 'operationally' is the best way to know whether it's working or not.
