03-20-2017, 03:32 AM
I was looking through the threads searching for info on the fan clutch. I was looking to see if there is some way to test my fan clutch with it removed from the vehicle to know that it is working properly.
The service manual says only to check it for leaks (mine has no apparent leaks). Then I saw the above comment that the one previously pictured in this thread "looks like a thermal only clutch". That made me wonder about the types of fan clutches available.
On Rock Auto they are all called thermal clutches. In the information about some of the clutches they indicate that the life expectancy of the fan clutch is the same as that of the water pump and should be replaced at the same time.
So now I am considering purchasing a new fan clutch just because I have replaced the water pump, but they are a little pricey and mine looks fine. How do I know if it is the correct thermal clutch with the part inside that opens at high RPM?
Do you know a way to test mine to see if it is working right? At room temperature the clutch spins with very little resistance on the shaft. If I heat up the spring in the front with the torch a little then should the clutch lock up to the shaft? Or does it have to be spinning quickly to test it?
The service manual says only to check it for leaks (mine has no apparent leaks). Then I saw the above comment that the one previously pictured in this thread "looks like a thermal only clutch". That made me wonder about the types of fan clutches available.
On Rock Auto they are all called thermal clutches. In the information about some of the clutches they indicate that the life expectancy of the fan clutch is the same as that of the water pump and should be replaced at the same time.
So now I am considering purchasing a new fan clutch just because I have replaced the water pump, but they are a little pricey and mine looks fine. How do I know if it is the correct thermal clutch with the part inside that opens at high RPM?
Do you know a way to test mine to see if it is working right? At room temperature the clutch spins with very little resistance on the shaft. If I heat up the spring in the front with the torch a little then should the clutch lock up to the shaft? Or does it have to be spinning quickly to test it?
1995 Suzuki Sidekick JX 4WD 4-door hardtop, G16 1.6L 16 valve L4 SOHC, 4-spd Auto Trans (Asin AW Model 03-72 LE), Non-ABS, Assembled in Ingersoil, Ontario. Currently in Tok, AK.