electric fans

[Slewfoot]

My fan-clutch died over the weekend.  $500.00 from Chrysler  $100.00 form partsource 

I'll be looking into an electric in the not too-distant future myself.

bnine, if you're still looking for an old fan-clutch, you can have mine....it is not locked, it is free-wheeling.  Let me know, I'll bring it to the next meeting. (it's off a '06 Rubi 4.0 L)

[Slewfoot]

I could have *sworn* I called the various auto outlets and they all said it was factory or not available.  That's a *lot* cheaper than aftermarket electric fan, though by the time I did wiring, switches, controls etc., it may have added up anyways.

Free wheeling typically indicates either the viscous fluid (used to be silicone) has leaked out or the bimetal spring is stuck/frozen/broken into the cold position.

I wonder if it's a different part for the '06.  I checked the Wrangler Extreme on flex-a-lite's web site http://www.flex-a-lite.com/auto/html/jeep-wrangler.html and it lists it for 1987-2005 models...but not  2006.

The spring on the old clutch looks OK - not broken or frozen.  My guess is that the fluid leaked out over time - it is really free-wheeling.  I thought I noticed a drop in pep with the new clutch but thought it was my imagination.  After rereading this thread...Elsifer said he noticed a power gain with an electric, so perhaps it wasn't my imagination after all.

[Slewfoot]

I looked further, and the install instruction .pdf file for the Flex-a-Lite Wrangler Xtreme electric fan kit  lists the years 1987-2006...perhaps the web page hasn't been updated since 2005...but it looks like the kit should be OK for me 

[Slewfoot]

Wow, parts for my fan repair are here already. Under a week and they sent new motor, new fan blade and the two washers and retaining clip.

The factory one seems to be working ok for now, but I'll definitely be switching it back.

I believe the kit is part number 485...perhaps this recall had something to do with their prompt action.  Personally, I find comfort in dealing with companies that recall defective (or potentially defective) products.  For me, it goes a long way in building their credability.

It looks like Flex-a-lite has a really good customer service focus 

[OffRoadNewbie]

i went to performance parts center today and bought the 16 " syclone flex a lite fan and controller cost me 200 bucks had it installed in an hour and it works GREAT !!!!! 

[Slewfoot]

i went to performance parts center today and bought the 16 " syclone flex a lite fan and controller cost me 200 bucks had it installed in an hour and it works GREAT !!!!! 

Sweeeeet   Good on ya.  Was it on sale or is that their regualr price?

[OffRoadNewbie]

he didnt sale on sale ..... so i think thats their regular price