Cooling System
Fan Clutch
A fan clutch connects a mechanical cooling fan to the engine and engages it harder as the radiator air gets hotter. We carry 30 fan clutches from $29 to $304 for 1967-2022 vehicles, from Hayden, AC Delco and Four Seasons, with fits for the Chevrolet Camaro, Ram 2500 and 3500, Toyota Tundra and Ford F350 Super Duty.
Shop fan clutch by vehicle
Signs of a bad fan clutch
A clutch that slips too much lets the engine run hot at idle or in slow traffic, and the air conditioning may blow warmer when you stop. You may notice the temperature drop again once you are moving. A clutch that stays locked makes a loud roar from the fan all the time and can hurt fuel economy. Other signs include oil streaks on the clutch body, a fan that wobbles, and a fan that spins freely many times when you spin it by hand on a cold engine.
Duty rating and type
Fan clutches here come in standard, heavy duty and severe duty ratings. Heavy and severe duty clutches engage more firmly and suit towing, hauling and hot climates, while standard clutches suit regular driving. Some trucks use an electro-viscous clutch controlled by the engine computer through a wiring connector, which is not interchangeable with a thermal clutch. Bodies are aluminum or metal. Some listings include four bolts and washers, while others reuse your hardware.
Fitment and removal
Select your vehicle, then check the fitment table for engine and cooling package, since towing or air conditioning options can change the clutch. Many clutches thread onto the water pump shaft and need a fan clutch wrench set to hold the pulley and turn the nut. Others bolt on. Work only with the engine off and cool. Check the water pump for play and the fan blade for cracks while the clutch is off.
Fan Clutch questions
How do I test a fan clutch?
With the engine off and cold, spin the fan by hand. It should turn with some resistance and stop within a few turns. If it spins freely for many turns, wobbles, or leaks oil, replace it.
Should I choose a heavy duty fan clutch?
If you tow, haul heavy loads or drive in high heat, a heavy duty or severe duty clutch can help keep temperatures down. It is louder and may cost some fuel economy. Standard duty suits normal use.
Can a bad fan clutch cause overheating?
Yes, especially at idle and low speeds when there is little natural airflow through the radiator. If temperatures drop once you are moving at speed, a slipping fan clutch is a common cause.