Thread: viscous fan /electric 300tdi can it be done ?

I have replaced the viscous fan on my defender with an electric one . I have a Kenlowe Fan KENLOWE which fits directly onto the core of the radiator - so you can remove the shroud. I have plumbed a thermo switch into the radiator , which allows me to control the fan manually should the thermostat fail , but also allows me to switch the fan off for deep water crossings. I guess any type of fan will do as long as it provides enough airflow. On the downside , my fan draws up to 20 amps when running , so I hope you have sufficient spare alternator capacity

i have used a falcon fan on my 200tdi no problems at all

Can we have some photo's. Pat

I used Davies Craig fans when I had the 300Tdi in my rangie. I didn't have the normal 300Tdi intercooler or fan shroud (the elec fans had their own shrouds).

IMHO, be very careful mounting a fan directly on the core. The movement can wear holes in the core and leave you stranded. I would not do it.

Originally Posted by heine

I have replaced the viscous fan on my defender with an electric one . I have a Kenlowe Fan KENLOWE which fits directly onto the core of the radiator -

Did you get that locally, or from the manufacturer in the UK? Was it dear?

Fans are just a means to an end of getting enough cooling air through the radiator and intercooler. They can also be partially self defeating. ie if a switched off electric fan is not in place obstructing airflow, there is less need to use one.

I have not replaced the fan and shroud on my 300Tdi Defender since changing the timing belt 15 months ago. Fan with viscous coupling is stored behind the seat in case I need it. Have 105 degree temperature switch on the cylinder head that the wire to the fuel solenoid on the injector pump goes through. Has stopped the motor once - well before it boiled when it had been idling for about half an hour on a hot day. Would not like to go without a fan without also having this protection, which seems simpler, cheaper and more foolproof than other anti overheat devices.

Have also done other things that allow better air flow. Air conditioner condensor with electric fan in front of it removed. Have thicker and smaller one that doesn't cover intercooler to replace it with sometime. Also, cut out about an inch of the aluminium panel below the radiator grille and have extra vents in the fenders.

Note that diesel engines are more efficient than petrol ones and for the same power output, less heat goes out the radiator and exhaust.

In case anyone thinks it is only possible to go without a fan in cold climate conditions, I live in Northern Victoria.