Can anyone explain to me how a fan clutch works and do they have oil in them? I have a 327 375HP and it appears that oil is seaping from the fan clutch although it seams to work. Does anyone rebuild the originals and where would I go? Am I better off to buy a new one? The oil or grease is getting everything in the engine compartment dirty. Thanks!
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Re: Fan Clutch
If you clutch is original, you can have it rebuilt. Can't remember the guys name, however he was at the NCRS Florida meet. I am sure someone can post his name. That's the way I would go.
If not original, buy one at the parts store. Just make sure you get a "thermal" clutch, as original, not a viscous clutch.
Viscous is usually much cheaper. How do you tell the difference? Look for the coil spring on the front of a thermal clutch. The viscous does not have one. -
Re: Fan Clutch
Thanks Mike, I do believe I have the original clutch and it does have the coil on the front.Comment
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Re: Fan Clutch
www.gate.net/~foliva/Comment
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Re: Fan Clutch
Jim-----
Fan clutches contain a silicone fluid which appears like oil. There is really only a very small amount of it in the units so, if some leaks out, it can seriously affect the performance of the clutch. The clutches can appear to work well and still be shot. The real test is cooling performance at idle. If the engine gets hot at idle, particularly in hot weather and/or prolonged idling conditions, the chances are that the clutch is bad. If not, the clutch is likely ok.
For a functional replacement use GM #3916141. This unit is configured similar to the originals and will perform well, although it engages at a slightly higher temperature than the original. For a concours retoration/rebuild, send your unit to Fred Oliva.In Appreciation of John HinckleyComment
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