The radiator fan clutch is the main device that transmits part of the driving torque and power from the engine to the radiator fan blade. Its correct operation characteristics and failure-free operation, which affect, among others, on fuel consumption and engine durability contribute to the quality of truck operation.
Below are the key activities related to the disassembly and replacement of the fan clutch in a truck:
Before starting work related to the disassembly of the radiator fan clutch, apply the parking brake and switch off the ignition in the vehicle.
- Check the clutch control electric wires for breaks, abrasions, etc. If damaged, replace or make necessary repairs.
- A diagnostic computer should be connected to determine the cause of the failure.
- Check the operation of the engine temperature sensor(s). In case of irregularities, replace them with new ones.
- Check the operation of the clutch drive belt tensioner (if present) and replace it with a new one if necessary.
- A visual assessment of the technical condition of coolers should be carried out. If they are dirty from the outside, carefully clean the radiator louvres, as incorrect air flow through the radiators changes the operating parameters of the clutch.
- Remove any additional components that interfere with the air flow through the radiators (additional covers during winter, additional headlights, etc.). Calculated coolers, with clogged tubes, are suitable for replacement with new ones. Check the routing of the coolant hoses for kinks that could interfere with the coolant flow in the system. Check the coolant level and top up if necessary.
- Remove all necessary casing and hardware to allow access to the fan clutch. Work should always be carried out in accordance with the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations
- Inspect the old fan clutch, disconnect the control cable if necessary.
- Unscrew the screws securing the fan cover and the screws securing the coupling to the shaft. Important: keep these screws for later installation of the new fan clutch.
- Carefully remove the fan guard and the propeller clutch from the engine compartment, taking care not to damage the radiators. remove the screws securing the fan blade to the clutch.
- Check carefully that the propeller blades are not bent or cracked. A damaged propeller cannot be repaired - it should always be replaced with a new one.
- Visually compare the dismantled and new fan clutch to ensure the diameter, number and spacing of holes, number of screws, etc.
- Install the fan blade to the new coupling using a torque wrench to tighten the bolts, paying attention to the correct tightening torque. Important: always use the new bolts supplied as standard with a new Nissens fan clutch.
- Before installing a new coupling, the surface of the shaft to which the coupling is attached must be cleaned. The smallest impurities and irregularities can cause beating of the fan clutch and propeller, then the complete clutch with the fan should be mounted on the shaft.
- Install all previously removed components in accordance with the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations. Connect the electrical connector, if present. Important: all electrical cables must be secured and positioned correctly to prevent damage to cables and clutch failure
- Make sure that the propeller blades rotate freely inside the fan housing. then connect a diagnostic computer to make sure there are no error codes.
- Electric cables must not be used to transfer the clutch
- The fan clutch must not be disassembled or modified.
If the fan's clutch fell to the floor during assembly or there is a suspicion of mechanical damage to the clutch - a new clutch should be used. In the Nissens online catalog open to everyone, in the catalog card of each coupling, there is an icon leading to the Nissens instructional video on the correct installation of the fan clutch.