Loud noise when accelerating after replacing the fan clutch

Tiny
JOYCE COLTON
  • MEMBER
  • 2007 GMC ENVOY
  • 4.2L
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 145,000 MILES
I replaced fan clutch and now poor gas mileage, using oil rough idle and loud roar when accelerating.
Saturday, May 29th, 2021 AT 7:55 PM

5 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,758 POSTS
Hi,

The noise is likely because the fan clutch is fully locked and turning the fan blade as fast as it can. Does it do this when the vehicle is cold and first started?

As far as the MPG and rough idle, the fan does place a bit of a load on the engine, but I don't think it would be too noticeable in the MPG. However, anything is possible. Also, the sound itself can cause you to feel there is a rough idle simply because of the added load and sound itself.

Take a look through this link. It explains the most common symptoms related to a bad fan clutch.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/fan-clutch-symptoms

Here is a link that shows in general how one is replaced:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/fan-clutch-removal

As far as oil consumption, that is a tough one. There really isn't anything related to the fan clutch that would cause it. How much oil is being used? For example, every 1,000 miles you need to add a quart.

I attached the directions below for fan clutch replacement. See if there is anything you missed. If you didn't miss anything and the clutch is fully engaged at all times, you may have gotten a bad clutch.

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Saturday, May 29th, 2021 AT 9:16 PM
Tiny
ELO2001LT5.3L4X4
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
My 2001 is doing the same thing, it sounds like a turbine with a brand-new clutch fan installed and was not like that at all beforehand.
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Wednesday, July 27th, 2022 AT 4:03 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,758 POSTS
Hi,

By chance, does the sound ever go away? What are the temperatures where you are located? Is the engine overheating as well, specifically in stop and go traffic?

Let me know.

Joe
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Wednesday, July 27th, 2022 AT 8:03 PM
Tiny
ELO2001LT5.3L4X4
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
It's not overheating, and I am in Southern California so temperatures are moderate but I think the clutch fan I got is a HD one and not a normal regular duty for my vehicle. I was thinking getting a "heavy duty" one would help with cooling and I was sorely mistaken. I am replacing it with a standard duty and will see if that fixes the turbine sound and less power.
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Thursday, July 28th, 2022 AT 8:56 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,758 POSTS
Hi,

That is very possibly the reason you are hearing so much noise. If possible, could you let me know if replacing it takes care of the issue? I would appreciate it.

Take care and let me know if there is anything I can do to help.

Joe
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Thursday, July 28th, 2022 AT 1:31 PM

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