1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee Clutch Fan Roars

JEEP
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TRCRAWF3
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
'96 Jeep grand chky, 5.2 liter, 115000 mi.
How do I tell if the clutch fan is bad? It seems to stay engaged all the time even when the engine is cold. It roars all the time.
It used to stop roaring after a few miles of highway driving and when it did I noticed a considerable increase in power. That never happens anymore.
Would it be benificial to change to a flex fan or would the noise and pwr loss be just as bad or worst.
Thanx
Mar 23, 2006 at 4:26 PM
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VANDRAGON
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 298 POSTS
if it has a clutch fan, you can check it by doing the folowing. with engine not running, try turning the fan blades. if they will not turn freely then it is locked up, time to replace it! putting an after market fan on could cost more than just going to a juck yard and getting a good used replacement.
Mar 25, 2006 at 2:38 AM
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MICHAEL SHATTO
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Default, as in when the clutch fails, is to lock up.
It will roar forever.
Apr 2, 2006 at 11:08 AM
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Suggested Repair

With the engine off, try turning the fan blades by hand. If they do not turn freely, the fan clutch is locked and should be replaced. A good used clutch fan from a salvage yard is often cheaper than an aftermarket fan. A failed clutch defaults to locked and will roar continuously.

Conversation Summary

Owner of a 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.2L reports the clutch fan stays engaged and roars even when cold, with a power loss that no longer clears after highway driving. An expert says to check with the engine off by turning the blades; if they do not spin freely, replace the locked clutch, noting a used unit may cost less than an aftermarket fan. Another reply confirms that clutch failure defaults to locked, so the roar continues.

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