Do I need a fan clutch? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

**FLchevygrl** · 11-26-2012, 05:49 PM

I picked this fan up in a deal on a box of parts...
My neighbor said I won't need a fan clutch with the fan cause its a flex fan.
So my question is
A) Is the fan really a flex fan?
B) Do I need a fan clutch with this fan?
C) Will this fan work if and when I upgrade to ac in the truck?
thanks,
Betty

68gmsee · 11-26-2012, 06:44 PM

That's what I call a flex fan and some people don't like them that much expecially if you're going to go with A/C. The flex fan does not stiffen up with the temp as the clutch fan does. That's the main reason it's not as good for that application.

vidman · 11-26-2012, 06:59 PM

If you are thinking about having air in your truck, I would get a good clutch and 7 blade fan made for your app. Will cost a little bit more but will work great. The 7 blade is less noisy and will free up some HP. I ran a 6 blade on my 402 just like the one you have and it did work for me (no air) but sounded like you were in a wind tunnel when you hit the go fast pedal.. JMO

crazy longhorn · 11-26-2012, 07:05 PM

I have a fan like that on my truck.....to be honest, it scares the crapp out of me! I have seen them come apart (YIKES!) I agree that a good clutch fan would be the route to go

crazyL

cableguy0 · 11-26-2012, 07:09 PM

Definately better off selling that flex fan and just using a clutch fan setup. Those flex fans are known for coming apart. A fan blade out through the hood is not a good thing.

**TBONE1964** · 11-26-2012, 07:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FLchevygrl

I picked this fan up in a deal on a box of parts...
My neighbor said I won't need a fan clutch with the fan cause its a flex fan.
So my question is
A) Is the fan really a flex fan?
B) Do I need a fan clutch with this fan?
C) Will this fan work if and when I upgrade to ac in the truck?
thanks,
Betty

What it really is, is a finger slicer. Do yourself a favor and go with a fan clutch style fan. These flex fans are also good for robbing horsepower.

Good luck

Redcap · 11-26-2012, 08:05 PM

Those flex fans are garbage.

**FLchevygrl** · 11-26-2012, 11:39 PM

ok, So how much can I get for the fan? lol

thanks,
Betty

crazy longhorn · 11-26-2012, 11:59 PM

5 dollas....hell, I dont know/, what I do know.....DO NOT buzz that motor, while standing over it.....be safe 'babygirl"

crazy L

68gmsee · 11-27-2012, 10:49 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FLchevygrl

ok, So how much can I get for the fan? lol
thanks,
Betty

Hope you didn't pay too much for it. It's probably usable for the time being but just be aware of what the above posts say about these fans. So far, no one has a good thing to say about them.

FYI: a lot of us have been around these older vehicle for many years (some of us more than we care to remember) and have either seen or experienced just about any problem that comes up. If you ever have any question about these old trucks or need information about a part be sure and ask (before you buy. lol)

snj8198 · 11-27-2012, 11:01 AM

I have seen the aftermath of what happens when a flex fan comes apart. They cut right through the hood and inner fenders.

I've ran one before without failure but that stupid thing would cut me if i even looked at it! Flex fans are very unforgiving if you like to raise the hood your self. As stated above, do yourself a favor get rid of it and find a good 7 blade with heavy clutch. Your fingers will thank you.

*bk2life* · 11-27-2012, 12:05 PM

hehehe salad tosser/cutter.

i have personally stuck my thumb in one. ouch. pin and about 3 months later i can use my thumb again.

dont ask, was stupid.

clutch fan FTW!!

SSC's76 · 11-27-2012, 03:25 PM

worth wise 5 10 bucks some people don't like electric and due to space need to use them. I have in
been in a car when one decided to explode cut through the the steel hood like a hot knife through butter

Posted from 67-72chevytrucks.com App for Android

**FLchevygrl** · 11-27-2012, 06:01 PM

Well it came in a box of parts for 20 bucks and the steering wheel from my truck. For some reason it had a bel air wheel on it. And ole boy just happened to need a bel air wheel. Got grant wheel for my wheel and the box contained turn signal lights, wiper motor, over flow tank with all the mounting stuff, and a battery tray...
I only like the fan cause it looked in better shape than what I had.
So no worries fan isn't going on the truck...

Anyone know what a 7 blade will cost or should cost?

thanks for all the help and info.
Betty

68gmsee · 11-27-2012, 07:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FLchevygrl

....Anyone know what a 7 blade will cost or should cost? thanks for all the help and info.

Betty

They run about $60-$70. You could try the salvage yards but I'm not sure you really need a 7 blade fan. I've run five blades fans on my 350's with no problems. When you install A/C install a shroud and make sure your radiator is up to the extra cooling the engine will need.

**Captainfab** · 11-28-2012, 12:02 AM

The correct fan shroud will make a world of difference in the performance of any fan. Even those old 4 blade fans will perform remarkably well when placed in a fan shroud. I would recommend a clutch fan also.

vidman · 11-29-2012, 08:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Captainfab

The correct fan shroud will make a world of difference in the performance of any fan. Even those old 4 blade fans will perform remarkably well when placed in a fan shroud. I would recommend a clutch fan also.

X2

**LostMy65** · 02-02-2013, 07:52 AM

Don't even sell that fan.
We know their reputation is dangerous.
I wouldn't want to find out later that I made a couple bucks off someone, by putting them at risk of getting hurt bad.
Posted via Mobile Device

69GWC · 02-02-2013, 03:00 PM

Google flex fans and holes in hoods..lol

Good 6/7 blade clutch fan will work great OR you could install electric fans. I have a clutch fan and it cools my truck just fine.
Posted via Mobile Device

storm9c1 · 02-02-2013, 05:38 PM

Add me to the list of agreers. No no no on the flex fan. Hang it on your wall. Or make a windmill out of it. That's about all it's good for. Electric fans are good for computer controlled vehicles or a race car/truck. I think they are dubious for a carb street vehicle. A 7-blade clutch fan is the perfect match for an carb A/C car/truck. There's a reason they were OEM for decades.

When you are looking for a stock fan, get one that looks like it has a big (approximately 2") circle/hole in the middle with 4 bolt holes around it. That circle is part of the mounting for the clutch. Avoid used clutches. You can get brand new clutches at the local part stores. Hayden and Imperial (actually the same company now) still make them aftermarket. And there are a few other higher quality versions. Be sure to get a thermal clutch.

**FLchevygrl** · 02-04-2013, 01:11 AM

Well I did trash the flex fan...threw it in the scrap pile out back...lol
Ordered a 7 blade fan from another memeber on here. only negative is that its 1 1/2 inches to big..but not currently using a shroud so I'll be ok...lol
He's also going to keep an eye out for a stock fan for me.
As for fan clutch I did get a new one... And I think it is a thermal one.

thanks,
Betty

storm9c1 · 02-04-2013, 03:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FLchevygrl

Well I did trash the flex fan...threw it in the scrap pile out back...lol
Ordered a 7 blade fan from another memeber on here. only negative is that its 1 1/2 inches to big..but not currently using a shroud so I'll be ok...lol
He's also going to keep an eye out for a stock fan for me.
As for fan clutch I did get a new one... And I think it is a thermal one.

thanks,
Betty

Thermal one has a curly spring on the front/center hub of it. Take a look and make sure.

**LostMy65** · 06-10-2017, 09:10 PM

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=339433

11-26-2012, 05:49 PM	#1
FLchevygrl Active Member Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Sarasota,Fl Posts: 177	Do I need a fan clutch? I picked this fan up in a deal on a box of parts... My neighbor said I won't need a fan clutch with the fan cause its a flex fan. So my question is A) Is the fan really a flex fan? B) Do I need a fan clutch with this fan? C) Will this fan work if and when I upgrade to ac in the truck? thanks, Betty Attached Images Last edited by FLchevygrl; 11-26-2012 at 05:50 PM. Reason: forget something

11-26-2012, 06:44 PM	#2
68gmsee Active Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Centrally located between Houston, Austin and Waco. BCS area. Posts: 7,947	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? That's what I call a flex fan and some people don't like them that much expecially if you're going to go with A/C. The flex fan does not stiffen up with the temp as the clutch fan does. That's the main reason it's not as good for that application. __________________ 68 GMC 250/3 speed Saginaw p/b p/s 69 Chevy 350/350 currently in pieces still lookin for a cab 06 Trailblazer I just want a vehicle that I can work on, that won't talk to me, leave error msgs or keep track of how I drive...

11-26-2012, 06:59 PM	#3
vidman Registered User Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: Fitchburg,Mass Posts: 737	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? If you are thinking about having air in your truck, I would get a good clutch and 7 blade fan made for your app. Will cost a little bit more but will work great. The 7 blade is less noisy and will free up some HP. I ran a 6 blade on my 402 just like the one you have and it did work for me (no air) but sounded like you were in a wind tunnel when you hit the go fast pedal.. JMO __________________ 62 Willys 4wd Pickup : 72 C-10 swb 504 stroker 09 Taco 3" lift 33" tires: 90 K-5 blazer (plow truck): RIP Ross Little brother

11-26-2012, 07:05 PM	#4
crazy longhorn Fabricate till you "puke" Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Ill Posts: 9,403	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? I have a fan like that on my truck.....to be honest, it scares the crapp out of me! I have seen them come apart (YIKES!) I agree that a good clutch fan would be the route to go crazyL __________________ 69 longhorn,4" chop,3/5 drop, 1/2 ton suspension/disc brakes,1 1/2" body drop,steel tilt clip, 5.3/Edelbrock rpm intake/600 carb, Hooker streetrod shorties,2 1/2" exhaust/ H pipe/50's Flows , 6 spd Richmond trans,12 bolt/ 3.40 gears....

11-26-2012, 07:09 PM	#5
cableguy0 Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2000 Location: Delta,Pa Posts: 14,950	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? Definately better off selling that flex fan and just using a clutch fan setup. Those flex fans are known for coming apart. A fan blade out through the hood is not a good thing. __________________ Owner of North Point Car Care in Dundalk Md. We specialize in custom exhaust on both modern and classic vehicles. We are a full service auto shop from classics to modern vehicles. Feel free to contact me with questions. I will give a 10% discount to any board member.

11-26-2012, 08:05 PM	#7
Redcap Registered User Join Date: May 2010 Location: Lewis County, WA Posts: 1,523	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? Those flex fans are garbage.

11-26-2012, 11:39 PM	#8
FLchevygrl Active Member Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Sarasota,Fl Posts: 177	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? ok, So how much can I get for the fan? lol thanks, Betty

11-26-2012, 11:59 PM	#9
crazy longhorn Fabricate till you "puke" Join Date: Jun 2002 Location: Ill Posts: 9,403	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? 5 dollas....hell, I dont know/, what I do know.....DO NOT buzz that motor, while standing over it.....be safe 'babygirl" crazy L __________________ 69 longhorn,4" chop,3/5 drop, 1/2 ton suspension/disc brakes,1 1/2" body drop,steel tilt clip, 5.3/Edelbrock rpm intake/600 carb, Hooker streetrod shorties,2 1/2" exhaust/ H pipe/50's Flows , 6 spd Richmond trans,12 bolt/ 3.40 gears....

11-27-2012, 11:01 AM	#11
snj8198 Registered User Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Star Valley, WY Posts: 2,038	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? I have seen the aftermath of what happens when a flex fan comes apart. They cut right through the hood and inner fenders. I've ran one before without failure but that stupid thing would cut me if i even looked at it! Flex fans are very unforgiving if you like to raise the hood your self. As stated above, do yourself a favor get rid of it and find a good 7 blade with heavy clutch. Your fingers will thank you. __________________ Steve 1971 GMC Longbox. Full Roller Stroker 489 w/ FiTech EFI, Chris Straub Cam/NV4500/205/D60/14B w. Grizzly Locker and 4.11's. 2" Lift on 33's

11-27-2012, 12:05 PM	#12
bk2life Account Suspended Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: phx, az Posts: 868	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? hehehe salad tosser/cutter. i have personally stuck my thumb in one. ouch. pin and about 3 months later i can use my thumb again. dont ask, was stupid. clutch fan FTW!!

11-27-2012, 03:25 PM	#13
SSC's76 No No Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Pueblo Colorado Posts: 1,781	worth wise 5 10 bucks some people don't like electric and due to space need to use them. I have in been in a car when one decided to explode cut through the the steel hood like a hot knife through butter Posted from 67-72chevytrucks.com App for Android __________________ 1976 Custom Deluxe SWB Med FMB.3/4 Drop. Gen VI 454, Muncie HD 3 speed With Modified OE Hurst Shifter, 3.73 12 bolt, GMPP HO roller cam, Hooker headers, Performer intake with modified Q-jet, Accel distributor. Best 1/4 12.3 @108. Funnest run 19.84 @88 full 1/4 mile burn out. 1997 K1500 ext cab 5.7 stock except muffler

11-27-2012, 06:01 PM	#14
FLchevygrl Active Member Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Sarasota,Fl Posts: 177	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? Well it came in a box of parts for 20 bucks and the steering wheel from my truck. For some reason it had a bel air wheel on it. And ole boy just happened to need a bel air wheel. Got grant wheel for my wheel and the box contained turn signal lights, wiper motor, over flow tank with all the mounting stuff, and a battery tray... I only like the fan cause it looked in better shape than what I had. So no worries fan isn't going on the truck... Anyone know what a 7 blade will cost or should cost? thanks for all the help and info. Betty

11-28-2012, 12:02 AM	#16
Captainfab 60-66 Nut Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Coeur d'Alene, Idaho Posts: 23,246	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? The correct fan shroud will make a world of difference in the performance of any fan. Even those old 4 blade fans will perform remarkably well when placed in a fan shroud. I would recommend a clutch fan also. __________________ Power Steering Box Adapter Plates For Sale HERE Power Brake Booster Adapter Brackets For Sale '63-'66 HERE and '67-'72 HERE and '60-'62 HERE and "60-'62 with clutch HERE Rear Disc Brake Brackets For Sale. Impala SS calipers HERE Camaro Calipers HERE D52 Calipers HERE 6 Lug HERE Hydroboost Mounting Plates HERE

02-02-2013, 07:52 AM	#18
LostMy65 But Found Her 25yrs Later! Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: Oregon City, Oregon Posts: 10,460	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? Don't even sell that fan. We know their reputation is dangerous. I wouldn't want to find out later that I made a couple bucks off someone, by putting them at risk of getting hurt bad. Posted via Mobile Device __________________ I lost my 65 - Found it 25 years later: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=426650 66 C20 Service Truck: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=428035

02-02-2013, 03:00 PM	#19
69GWC Registered User Join Date: Jun 2012 Posts: 1,089	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? Google flex fans and holes in hoods..lol Good 6/7 blade clutch fan will work great OR you could install electric fans. I have a clutch fan and it cools my truck just fine. Posted via Mobile Device



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02-02-2013, 05:38 PM	#20
storm9c1 * That's interesting * Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Pittsburgh, PA Posts: 2,772	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? Add me to the list of agreers. No no no on the flex fan. Hang it on your wall. Or make a windmill out of it. That's about all it's good for. Electric fans are good for computer controlled vehicles or a race car/truck. I think they are dubious for a carb street vehicle. A 7-blade clutch fan is the perfect match for an carb A/C car/truck. There's a reason they were OEM for decades. When you are looking for a stock fan, get one that looks like it has a big (approximately 2") circle/hole in the middle with 4 bolt holes around it. That circle is part of the mounting for the clutch. Avoid used clutches. You can get brand new clutches at the local part stores. Hayden and Imperial (actually the same company now) still make them aftermarket. And there are a few other higher quality versions. Be sure to get a thermal clutch. __________________ Tom Chevy by day... 1969 Chevy C30 Rollback Tow Truck -- 383 stroker, 4L80E 2011 Chevy Caprice PPV 9C3 6.0L 1995 Chevy Caprice 9C1 1994 Chevy Caprice 9C1 #3 1995 Chevy Caprice Wagon #2 1995 Chevy Impala SS Mopar by night... 1969 Dodge Charger 1972 Chrysler Newport 2dr Hardtop (27K miles) Plus others...

02-04-2013, 01:11 AM	#21
FLchevygrl Active Member Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Sarasota,Fl Posts: 177	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? Well I did trash the flex fan...threw it in the scrap pile out back...lol Ordered a 7 blade fan from another memeber on here. only negative is that its 1 1/2 inches to big..but not currently using a shroud so I'll be ok...lol He's also going to keep an eye out for a stock fan for me. As for fan clutch I did get a new one... And I think it is a thermal one. thanks, Betty

06-10-2017, 09:10 PM	#23
LostMy65 But Found Her 25yrs Later! Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: Oregon City, Oregon Posts: 10,460	Re: Do I need a fan clutch? http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=339433 __________________ I lost my 65 - Found it 25 years later: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=426650 66 C20 Service Truck: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=428035

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