Installing an Electric Fan...

[280~Master]

You may want to keep in mind the 240sx lower radiator hose temp switch, to install your temp switch with. Its about 20 to 30 bucks at any local autoparts and comes with its own metal housing to use. If you look at my pictures http://www.classiczcars.com/photopost/showgallery.php?cat=500&page=2&ppuser=9867 of the electric fan I used you can source alot if it from the junk yard for cheeper than a new one. You don't get more Hourse power from the electric fan, if thats your plan. Maybe 5 HP hardly noticeable. I would stay with the rebuilt fan clutch if you are using a stock radiator. I used the JTR cross flow radiator with a Ford tarus 2 speed fan and a Ford escort wagon fanshroud from the 80's. With the radiator and fan I run what ever the thermostat temp opens at. I must say its nicer and cooler but its also time consuming to replace it all.

[sblake01]

I agree, stay with the clutch fan. I have both. I installed an electric fan on my 78 but it's a pusher fan on the condensor for the AC.

[ktm]

I did not see anyone mention this important item - use a relay. I see someone mentioned a breaker and that is a good start, but you should really run the fan off a relay. That way you are not running the fan through your old wiring harness. Electric fans are high amperage devices (30 amps). It would be better to run all new wires, of appropriate gauge, to am from the relay.

Speaking of gauge, make sure you are using the appropriate gauge wire as well when running the power wire to the fan. For 30 amps, I would run 12 gauge wire.

[DeesZ]

It's interesting to see the comments about keeping the clutch fan come up. I came to that conclusion myself and am re-converting things back to a clutch fan with a 10" pusher as supplemental when needed. I'm happy that others are of a similar mindset. I will be using a relay for it as well. Relays were covered at least twice in the responses, and they are important. I would not run an electric fan on a 240 without one. Darbji is driving a '76 280.... and I'll be the first to admit that I am not very familiar with the wiring on them. I'd assume there were a few upgrades, but probably not enough to safely run a fan without a relay.

[sblake01]

On my 78, i've run it both ways. Presently it has a relay but I didn't notice any problems before I installed it. My electric fan only comes on with the AC. It's in the same circuit that powers up the compressor but it has it's own relay.

[Darbji280z]

I'm working on it right now (breaking for a cigarette). Everything is going very well. I removed all my AC components (because, although it works great, I dont use it and have no interest in keeping it. Also it gives me a whole lot more room to work with.) I am very happy with the ease in which this project is providing me. I am mostly surprised that not a thing fought with me (as opposed to working on the Delorean or any of my other cars for that matter.) So besides being hot, sweaty and dirty,all is going well. I'm going to try this electric fan thing and if for some reason I don't like it, I will let you know. Thanks for all the help. I'll get back with the results of this project very shortly. Thanks again!

[e_racer1999]

FWIW i found a webpage that describes how to rebuild the fan clutch if you're interested. i don't remember the site (i think i googled it) but all you really need for it is a razor blade, some paint thinner, brake parts cleaner, and some smoke b gone. i should add that if you DO decide to rebuild the fan clutch: don't let the o-ring sit too long!! it will strecth a BUNCH so it won't be able to be used again. i made that mistake and had to use RTV

anyway, GL w/ your elec fan install!

[sblake01]

Dan (Rockr69) alluded to the fact that I know how to rebuild fan clutches, which I do and have done successfully, but I can't take credit for the knowledge. My info came from here: http://zhome.com/ZCMnL/tech/FanClutch/FanClutch.htm

[sblake01]

As an addendum to my last post, I use Kyosho #5000 silicone oil rather than the Toyota silicone oil recommemded in the link. It's available at any hobby store that deals with RC cars, comes in 40ml bottles instead of 18ml, costs less and works just as well.

[KDMatt]

So besides being hot, sweaty and dirty,all is going well.

Clearly! :classic:

[sblake01]

I can't think of a comment that would uphold the good taste I generally try to display here, so I'll just go with 'ahhhh.......what?':eek::classic:

[Darbji280z]

Clearly! :classic:

That's SO NOT WHAT I MEANT! Matthew and you know that!

(But who am I kidding, that's what I love about you)