rmoths

I need to replace my fan clutch on my 72 ,350 Cutlass.
The car has a fan shroud and it seems to be my first problem.
I took the top plate off and got the fan shroud loose, but I can't get the shroud out to get the fan clutch off.
Just wondering if there is some proper procedure or can I get the fan clutch out with the fan shroud in place. threw the bottom maybe.
Just thought I would ask here before I go any further with this.
Thanks Ron&Barb.

oldcutlass

Take the fasteners out so the shroud is free then slide it back so you can get to the fan clutch nuts in the gap between the radiator and the shroud.

RetroRanger

if the shroud is loose at the top and bottom you can just slide it back toward the engine to access the fan bolts....

RetroRanger

stupit slow internet

Fun71

There are two bolts (well, large hex head screws, same as what hold the top plate on) that secure the shroud at the bottom. You may have to remove the four fan attaching bolts and lift the fan and shroud out together as there really isn't room to get either one out by itself.

Octania

and in WI if you have rust you may expect those lower nuts- and all nuts- to be rusted and to shred the plastic upon removal. Heating is not much of an option what with the plastic so if lube and torque don't do it, you may have to get ingenious to remove the fastener w/o destroying the shroud mounting tabs. See if you can unbolt the metal lower tabs from the car and take them to the bench with the shroud where you can work at it with say the 4" grinder and coolant.

Agreed that removal of the shroud and fan/clutch asm together is generally best. Quality open end wrench in 1/2" to get the nuts off that secure clutch to WP hub. Use the biggest blade gap you can find.

Fun71

I don't loosen the belts prior to this so they help keep the pulley from spinning while removing the nuts.

rmoths

OK, I'll see if I can get the bottom of the shroud loose.
Seems like it's one of those jobs you just have to wrestle with AND use some choice words to get done.
I think I'll call Ed China he loves this kind of stuff.
Thanks Ron&Barb.

oldcutlass

Yes, proper cuss word etiquette is a requirement.

Lady72nRob71

Yep, this is how I did it.

I was also able to CAREFULLY remove the clutch/fan assy without removing the shroud or top plate. Now the AC compressor is not mounted right now, so maybe that was how I got away with that. It came up through the top and slightly to the passenger side.
Extreme care is needed to avoid damaging the radiator.

I did this too. Works great and saves time messing with belt adjustment.

When I did mine it took 15 minutes flat. Lucky I guess...

rmoths

Thanks, I'll give this another look.
I know there is no absolute answer to this, but It sure helps me.
Ron&Barb.

Octania

a piece of cardboard or similar next to the radiator will help avoid damage to its fins.

rmoths

Well I got the shroud loose, got the bolts off on the clutch fan, but I can't get it to break loose from the motor. I have all the belts loose and I sprayed penatrating oil around the area where it touchs the pully behind it.
I'll let it soak for a few days and hope it breaks loose.

Lady72nRob71

Try rocking it (the clutch) to break the corrosion ow whatnot. There is a nose on the water pump that does into a hole on the clutch - usually a very tight tolerance. Here the tension on the belts could have popped this loose for you.
Do not push or pull on the fan itself to avoid bends. Maybe tighten up the alternator belt and push down on it to pull on the pulley which could break the clutch loose. BTW, make sure you got all 4 nuts off (yes it happens to all of us at times)...

rmoths

Boy thats what I thought, I must have missed some bolt.
I did get the four off. I sprayed it with break loose around the back side.
I've had it for today, I go back at it on Monday. I think it's Miller time.
Barb.

oldcutlass

You almost there, don't give up now. Like Rob says there is a pilot piece of shaft that protrudes from the water pump into the clutch. Put on some gloves or use a rag, grasp the clutch firmly with both hands and wiggle it off. They can be stubborn.

rmoths

What a battle! I tried everything that clutch fan was not moving.
I was about to give up when I gave it one more try from the bottom with a fine screwdriver. It did break loose, I moved it about a quarter inch.
So I soaked with more break loose spray and tomorrow we'll take it off.
I have to lift it off with the fan shroud. It's going to be a husband and wife team effort. Ron & Barb.

oldcutlass

At this point as you have the fasteners off, I would remove the belts. After you have the clutch and fan removed, remove the pulley from the water pump and inspect the weep hole at the bottom of the housing. If you see any indication of coolant leaking, I'd go ahead and change the water pump since your there.

rmoths

Thanks that's a very good idea. Where would be the best place or brand of clutch fan to buy, I trust you're opinion. Ron.

oldcutlass

The Hayden 2747 I believe is very good HD clutch, it should be available through your local parts store. I'd PM Rob and ask which he went with.

BILL DEMMER

i believe rob went with the acdelco that i have more of.


bill

Lady72nRob71

I mentioned that in a PM to him. I might need to get another for a spare.
Those seem like ghost clutches. When driving I never really hear the fan, but the gauge is always in the right spot. I only hear it on startup.
In other words, same behavior as my 86's original clutch.

rmoths

I went over to my local Carquest store, I've become friend with them with all the parts I've been getting. They have a 2747 Fan clutch (Not the hayden name, but I think Hayden makes it). It was $60.00 and I got it the same day. Sorry I was gone all day yesterday I should have gotten back to you (Rob). I hope this does the trick, maybe I can try a parade again.
Thanks for you're help again! Ron&Barb.

oldcutlass

It will be easier going back together.

Lady72nRob71

As long as it was not like the crappy one I got fromt he parts place long ago that leaked after 3 years. I even had to enlarge the hole in the center and elongate the bolt hole channels!
The Hayden and the ACD bolted on perfectly.

rmoths

Well it seems to fit, I did have to use a brass bushing supplied with the fan clutch. From what I've seen it looks like the Hayden clutch. I had to move the car so I couldn't wait to order one. Just hope it's not to loud.
Ron&Barb