Clutch fan stuck on

Tiny
DOUG MCCLUSKEY
  • MEMBER
  • 2001 GMC SIERRA
  • 5.3L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 111,234 MILES
I have replaced it and it still is just as loud as ever. Is there another place to start at? I am open to help, I just do not want to replace stuff I do not need to.
Tuesday, September 18th, 2018 AT 6:21 PM

11 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros. Com.

The fan clutch operates based on engine compartment temperature. When the engine is cold, you should be able to turn the fan by hand. If you cannot, chances are you got a bad clutch. Take a look through this information. It discusses noise issues. See if they are what you are experiencing and let me know if it helps.

Fan Clutch Diagnosis

Fan Noise
Fan noise is sometimes evident under the following conditions:
When the clutch is engaged for maximum cooling.
During the first fifteen seconds to one minute after start-up until the clutch can redistribute the silicone fluid back to the fluid's normal disengaged operating condition (after overnight settling).
Fan noise, or an excessive roar, generally occurs continuously under all high engine speed conditions (2,500 RPM and up) if the clutch assembly locks up because of an internal failure. If you cannot rotate the fan by hand, or if there is a rough grating feel as the fan is turned, replace the clutch.

Looseness
Under various temperature conditions, a lateral movement is visible at the tip of the fan blade. About 6.5 mm (1/4 inch) maximum lateral movement, measured at the fan tip, is allowable. Replacement of the fan clutch is not necessary.
Ensure that the fan blade is installed properly. If the fan is installed incorrectly, the fan will cause an overheating problem.

I will watch for your reply.

Take care,
Joe
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Tuesday, September 18th, 2018 AT 7:19 PM
Tiny
DOUG MCCLUSKEY
  • MEMBER
  • 10 POSTS
Nothing is loose, is there a temperature sensor that could cause this?
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Wednesday, September 19th, 2018 AT 11:56 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Welcome back. The temperature sensor is nothing more than a thermostatic spring which expands and contracts based on temperature. Did you look through the diagnosis list I sent? Does it fail at any of the symptoms?
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Wednesday, September 19th, 2018 AT 5:29 PM
Tiny
DOUG MCCLUSKEY
  • MEMBER
  • 10 POSTS
Yes, I looked through it. Before my truck started making the loud fan noise it never overheated and still does not.
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Wednesday, September 19th, 2018 AT 5:33 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
With the engine cold and off, can you easily turn the fan? There will be some resistance, but it should turn somewhat easy.
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Wednesday, September 19th, 2018 AT 5:54 PM
Tiny
DOUG MCCLUSKEY
  • MEMBER
  • 10 POSTS
Yes, I can.
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Wednesday, September 19th, 2018 AT 6:44 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
If you can turn it easily, it sounds like it is working correctly. They are noisy.
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Thursday, September 20th, 2018 AT 5:33 PM
Tiny
DOUG MCCLUSKEY
  • MEMBER
  • 10 POSTS
But is it normal to hear the loud sound all the time?
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Thursday, September 20th, 2018 AT 5:34 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Honestly, I would think when the engine was cold, it would not be as noticeable. However, they can still be heard.
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Thursday, September 20th, 2018 AT 7:59 PM
Tiny
DOUG MCCLUSKEY
  • MEMBER
  • 10 POSTS
Okay, thank you.
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Friday, September 21st, 2018 AT 1:08 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
No problem. I wish I had a way to quiet it for you, but they just make noise. Take care of yourself and let us know if you have questions in the future.

Take care,
Joe
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Friday, September 21st, 2018 AT 5:51 PM

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