Choosing the Right Car Radiator Fan
Most stock engines do not need a radiator fan. When the car is moving down the road, wind creates enough air flow to keep coolant temperature low.
Mechanical fans are thermostatically controlled and mounted on the water pump pulley. There are two types: clutch and flex.
When the fan does not turn on, use a multimeter to test for current at the relay or control module. If the fan still does not work, a replacement is required.
Choosing the Right Fan
The car radiator fan is one of the most critical parts of a vehicle’s cooling system. It needs to be functional and working properly to keep your engine cool and prevent overheating, especially in traffic or when driving for long distances. There are several different fans available on the market and knowing which ones to choose can be tricky. Whether you’re looking to add an electric radiator fan or replace a mechanical clutch type, choosing the right one will ensure your car’s cooling system is functioning as intended.
Mechanical fans can be further categorized as clutch or flex type and are generally used for stock or slightly modified engines. Electrical fans, on the other hand, are used in most modern vehicles and operate using a component called a module that allows them to accept input from sensors, making them more controllable.
When choosing an electric radiator fan, there are a few important things to look for such as the number of blades, CFM rating and current draw. The more blades a fan has, the more powerful its airflow will be and the better it will suit demanding engines. You should also decide between straight and curved blades as each has its own pros and cons.
It’s generally recommended to go for a dual fan setup, however, some cars will only be able to accommodate one fan. If you’re considering a dual radiator fan, make sure that your engine will require the extra air.
The Relay
When you notice the temperature gauge moving closer to red while your car is parked or moving slowly in traffic, that’s usually a sign that your cooling fan is not working. When the fan fails to engage while your vehicle is stopped or at low speeds, engine temps will rapidly rise and cause damage.
To determine whether or not the cooling fan motor is bad, you can check its connector pins for voltage. You want to be sure that it’s receiving 12 volts or higher to car radiator fan operate properly. If the motor isn’t operating, it may be time to replace it with a new one.
If your radiator fan motor isn’t functioning, it’s important to compare its replacement with the original to ensure they are identical in mounting positions, electrical connections, and shaft diameter. You’ll also want to make sure that the height on which the fan blade rides is the same.
Most modern cars feature electric fans that are activated by a relay rather than the car engine. This type of fan is more reliable than a mechanical fan and doesn’t require as much power to run. It’s also easier to install in vehicles that have limited space. The fans can either be push or puller types, although pullers are the better choice as they don’t obstruct airflow to the radiator core.
The Control Module
The radiator fan motor is the core of your car’s cooling system. It is what makes the blades rotate to push or pull air to and from the radiator. A functional cooling fan ensures that the hot coolant gets blown away from your engine. If the motor fails or becomes weak it can’t provide enough airflow, which can cause your engine to overheat.
Your radiator fan is either a push or pull type depending on the size of your vehicle and your preference. You can also use dual fans to get more airflow. Regardless of the type you have, it’s important to choose a fan with high CFM rating. The higher the CFM rating, the more air it can push or pull.
While it may seem like a minor component, the radiator fan is essential to your car’s health. Therefore, it should always be in good working condition. A malfunctioning radiator fan can lead to overheating, which will ultimately damage your engine and other parts of the car. In case your fan is faulty, it’s time to inspect and fix it.
A faulty radiator fan can be caused by multiple factors, including a blown fuse, a bad relay, or a broken sensor. Luckily, most of these issues can be solved by car radiator fan visual inspection or using a multimeter to test the connection pins for voltage.
The Blades
During operation the fan motor rotates the blades and moves cool air through the radiator to help regulate engine temperature. The motor is supported by small bearings that, when lubricated properly, keep the blades rotating without shaking or vibrating. However, these bearings can become dry or damaged over time. When this occurs, the fan may make a screeching noise when the car is running.
To prevent this, always lubricate the bearings with a high-quality automotive fluid and keep them topped up. It’s also important to ensure that the radiator fan is mounted securely and has adequate clearance between it and the engine, as too close a fit can lead to overheating. When installing a new fan, it is essential to have the proper diameter and to mount it with a shroud that helps direct air toward the core.
There are two types of radiator fans, mechanical and electric. A mechanical fan mounts on a pulley, usually the water pump pulley, and is controlled by a clutch mechanism that engages when the coolant temperature rises. An electric fan, on the other hand, does not require a connection to the engine and works independently of it. Regardless of the type you choose, be sure to leave enough room for it in your engine bay. And, don’t forget to be careful around the blades; they can spin up unexpectedly and are very sharp!
