Fan Clutch Bi-metal strip

[Chas Henderson #28127]

I had my original Schwitzer fan clutch off the car years ago and took the bi-metal strip off. I put the strip back on and it came off. I have a new one, but don't know how they were attached. It wasn't crimped on. I think it was glues on but not sure and I want this one to stay on. I have e-mailed Fred Olivia several times but I can't get past his e-mail screen. I will have to say, the clutch has worked great for the last six years without it, and I have had no over heating problems. 71 sb. Any idals?

Thanks,
Chasman

[Joe L.]

Re: Fan Clutch Bi-metal strip

Chasman-----

I always thought that these "bi-metal" strips attached via "tangs" on the ends which "snap fit" into the "bracket" which was welded to the front plate. The rear of the center of the strip rests on and acts on the piston. The piston applying some upward pressure retains the strip in the bracket. At least, as I say, I thought this was how it worked; I've never actaully disassembled one. In any event, I really don't think that any sort of adhesive was involved.

[Louis F.]

Re: Fan Clutch Bi-metal strip

I had the same problem several years ago.A few momths after Fred Oliva rebuilt my clutch. He suggested using adhesive. It worked, hasn't come off in years.

[Greg T.]

Re: Fan Clutch Bi-metal strip

Where did you get a new bimetallic strip? My strip is held with a dollop of silver glue.

[Chas Henderson #28127]

Re: Fan Clutch Bi-metal strip

I contacted Fred O. about six or seven years ago and he sent me one. I put the original back on and it fit on o.k., but it flew off and put a small gash in my original seven blade fan. I was trying to remember if it was held on with some type of adhesive, but I really can't remember. As I said, I have sent Fred four e-mails in the last month and I get some software reply to enter some code in, which i do, but he never answers me. Does anyone have his phone number? I guess back then, he was not so swamped. Its the original fan clutch and it has been working great with out the strip, but it might even work better with it!

No, the strip doesn't have any tangs to bend over, it does fit into a slot on each end. I wonder if i could just silicone the ends in the slots?

Thanks,
Chasman