Fan clutch

CRAIGMCLAIN3855

MEMBER
1994 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
5.7L
V8
2WD
MANUAL
170,000 MILES

At what temperature should the fan clutch kick on to cool the radiator?

Monday, July 2nd, 2018 AT 12:51 PM

7 Replies

DANNY L

MECHANIC
5,648 POSTS

Hello, I am Danny.

Unlike an electric fan which is controlled by sensors and the PCM (a vehicles computer)- A fan clutch is a viscous coupler controlled mechanically by the fans RPM's with the engine running. The fan clutch is an item that wears normally and is subject to replacement after time/wear. Is truck running hot? I have attached a tutorial the shows you its function. Hope this helps and feel free to ask questions if needed. Can also include fan clutch replacement instructions if needed. Danny-

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-clutch-fan-works

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Monday, July 2nd, 2018 AT 6:56 PM

CRAIGMCLAIN3855

MEMBER
4 POSTS

The temperature was approximately 225-235°F. It was idling with the A/C on for about ten minutes. The fan had not engaged and it cooled down when driving down the road. I replaced the engine temperature sensor as I thought it controlled the fan clutch. The fan clutch engages on a cold start like it always has. Thank you for the information.

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Monday, July 2nd, 2018 AT 7:04 PM

DANNY L

MECHANIC
5,648 POSTS

Hello again.

You are welcome! Glad to help. Thanks for using 2CarPros.
Danny-

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Monday, July 2nd, 2018 AT 7:52 PM

CRAIGMCLAIN3855

MEMBER
4 POSTS

How hot should it get before the fan clutch engages? Thanks.

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Monday, July 2nd, 2018 AT 7:54 PM

DANNY L

MECHANIC
5,648 POSTS

Hello again.

Normally a viscous fan clutch (mechanical) as yours is usually aiding air flow at lower speeds/idling when there is not as much air flow as there is at high speeds/freeway driving (a lot of air flow). Have you had the fan clutch tested to see if it is operating correctly?
Danny-