I have a 1978 Delta 88 Holiday coupe that has the 403 V8 and no A/C. The car has the Y72 HD cooling package because of the factory 3.23 gears. I know it's summer and the cars tend to run warmer this time of year and I've noticed that my Delta is no exception. I just had it out on the highway for a cruise and when I got home and popped the hood I noticed I could turn the fan by hand with very little resistance. I thought the fan clutch (if working properly) should make it harder to turn. Does this mean the clutch should be replaced? I've checked my local places like Auto Zone and Advanced Auto but they offer a standard duty thermal clutch fan. Do I need a heavy duty version because of the Y72 option? Any recommendations? Brands?
Thanks.

 

You sometimes have to go outside the numbers to find a suitable part - many will retrofit applications they weren't originally cataloged for. I run the Hayden 2797 HD thermal fan clutch on my 350 motor - literally a drop-in replacement though not specifically cataloged for my application. I'd presume it should also fit your 403 - easiest way to find out is simply match it up to yours .

 

Olds powered 79 Ta was running hot, clutch bad, replaced it with correct Hayden severe duty fan clutch, problem solved.

 

Best time to check for resistance in the fan clutch is on a hot day, when idling in traffic in gear for a long time. After a highway cruise it might be cool enough to not engage. In other words, the clutch may be fine. Test it again as described.