Wiktor Wise
Installing an automotive electric cooling fan can be a great way to improve your vehicle's performance and keep its engine from overheating. Electric fans are especially useful in extreme conditions or high-temperature climates, as they are driven by a motor and controlled by a temperature sensor, rather than being mechanically attached to the engine. This means they can run independently of the engine's speed, kicking in only when the temperature rises. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of installing an electric cooling fan, from selecting the right fan for your vehicle to the wiring and mounting process.
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right electric fan
Electric fans are a great way to keep your engine temperature in a safe operating range. They are especially useful when your engine is spinning at low rpm, such as when you're stuck in traffic. When choosing an electric fan, there are several factors to consider.
Firstly, you should determine the minimum airflow you need, measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute). This will depend on the size of your engine. For example, a 5.0-liter engine or larger will require an electric fan with 2,800 or more CFM.
Next, you need to measure your radiator core to determine what size of the fan will fit. It is recommended to get a fan that covers as much of the radiator core as possible, leaving about an inch of clearance between the fan and any obstructions. If space is an issue, you may need to opt for a pusher fan, which sits in front of the radiator, rather than a puller fan, which sits behind it. However, keep in mind that pusher fans can obstruct airflow at high speeds due to their positioning.
Another factor to consider is noise. Straight fan blades move more air but are louder, while curved blades move less air but are quieter. If noise is a concern, you may opt for curved blades.
Finally, remember that adding an electric fan will put additional strain on your electrical system, especially if you choose a larger fan.
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Removing the old fan
To remove the old fan, you will first need to remove the radiator cowl by unscrewing the fasteners holding it down. There should be eight fasteners. Next, you will need to remove the OEM radiator fan. It is important to note that you will not need another belt; simply unscrew the fan from the pulley. The pulley weighs almost nothing, so you will notice the weight difference once the fan is removed.
If you are removing a fan from a water pump shaft, it is recommended that you remove your air intake to allow enough room for the removal. You may need a fan wrench for this step, which can be purchased or loaned from AutoZone. You will then need to pull towards the passenger side to unscrew the fan. You may need to have someone hold one of the water pump shaft bolts with a ratchet while you use a mallet and wrench. The fan is reverse-threaded, so you will need to turn it towards the passenger side.
If your fan has a shroud, you will need to remove the bolts holding it in place. Use an 8mm socket wrench to remove the two bolts.
Once the old fan is removed, you can begin the process of installing the new electric fan.
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Mounting the new fan
Another option is to secure the fan directly to the radiator using zip ties, if the fan mounting configuration allows for this. It is also possible to use wire and zip ties to mount the fan, although this may not be as secure as using brackets.
If you are installing a custom fan, you will need to determine the dimensions of the mounting surface, including the finned core area and the depth available for the fan while maintaining adequate clearance around the fan blades. It is important to consider any potential obstructions, such as air conditioning components, transmission oil dipsticks, power steering lines, wiring, and overflow tanks.
Once the fan is securely mounted, you can proceed with any necessary wiring connections and adjustments. It is important to follow the instructions provided with your wiring kit or seek professional assistance if needed.
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Connecting the wiring
Disconnect the Battery: Before beginning any wiring work, it is essential to disconnect the negative terminal of your car battery. This will prevent any accidental short circuits or electrical issues during the installation process. Ensure that the negative wire does not touch the positive wire or any metal components.
Identify the Wires: Familiarize yourself with the wiring diagram provided with your kit. Identify the power wire (usually red) and the ground wire (usually black) in your setup. The power wire will connect to the positive terminal of the battery, while the ground wire will connect to the negative terminal.
Run the Power Wire: Feed the power wire through a hole in your firewall, connecting it to the switch and the fan power wire. Use a butt connection to fuse the wires together securely. Tape the wires and the connection to hold them in place. Use zip ties to secure the wire to a stationary point in your engine bay for a clean and tidy installation.
Connect to the Ignition Wire: Locate the main ignition wire of your car, which is usually a large red wire connected to your ignition system under the dashboard. Connect the blue wire from the power link (middle link of the switch) to this ignition wire. Ensure that you make a secure connection, and use electrical tape to insulate the joint.
Reconnect the Battery: After completing all the connections, reconnect the negative terminal of the battery. Test your setup by turning on the switch. Ensure that your engine's temperature stays within a safe range during operation.
Fine-Tune the Thermostat: Electric cooling fans often have built-in thermostats that can be adjusted to control the fan's activation temperature. Fine-tune the thermostat by opening your car's hood and turning the knob on the thermostat. Adjust it according to your vehicle's specific requirements and operating temperature.
Test the System: Finally, test the entire system to ensure it works correctly. Start the engine and let it warm up. Adjust the thermal switch until the fan starts running, which should occur for 20-30 seconds before cutting out.
Always refer to your vehicle's manual and the instructions provided with your electric cooling fan for specific details pertaining to your make and model.
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Testing the fan
Testing your electric cooling fan is a straightforward process. First, you need to turn on the air conditioning. If both fans are operating, then your electric cooling fan is functioning. If the fan is not working, it may not be faulty. The AC could be inoperative, so you should try hotwiring the fan to test it. Disconnect the electrical connector at the fan and, using two jumper wires, jump the two terminals to the positive and negative terminals on the battery. If the fan is good, it should run.
If the fan still doesn't work, you should check the fuse and the engine cooling fan relay in the fuse/relay box. The location of the fuse and relay should be indicated in the owner's manual or on the fuse box lid. A relay is a type of remotely controlled switch. If the relay is faulty, you will need to replace it.
You can also test the fan by locating the coolant temperature switch and unplugging it. With the engine running and the coolant temperature switch unplugged, the fan should come on. If it doesn't, there may be an issue with the wiring. Check the electrical connectors for looseness or corrosion.
Finally, you can test the fan by reconnecting the battery and turning the thermal switch adjusting screw fully clockwise. Start the engine and let it warm up until the temperature gauge reads just above normal. Then, turn the adjusting screw slowly anticlockwise until the fan starts. The fan should run for 20-30 seconds before cutting out.
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Frequently asked questions
You should consider the size of your engine, the CFM (cubic feet per minute) of air the fan can pump, and whether the fan has a shroud to direct airflow.
First, remove the radiator cowl and the OEM radiator fan. Second, mount the new fan. Third, wire the fan. Finally, test the system.
Remove the fasteners holding the radiator cowl in place. Then, remove the fan by unscrewing it from the water pump shaft or pulley.
First, Unhook the negative wire from the battery. Next, get the power wire in place by passing it through the hole in your firewall. Then, connect the power wire from your fan to the wire that is going through the firewall.
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