Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives

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Apr 21, 2013 | 10:23 AM
  #101  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Another ancient thread question. I found that Oreiley has these in their BWD line, just add "T" to the front, like TFS1. I have a question though, when it says this above:

Quote:
FS1 - Closes at 222*-238* F- Retail $9.49
Is that the range of when it might turn on, or is it on at 238 and off at 222? 238 seems hot to even start cooling. I'm trying to get calibrated on what hot is in a V8 though. My engine currently runs near/under 200 most of the time.
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Apr 21, 2013 | 12:04 PM
  #102  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: Another ancient thread question. I found that Oreiley has these in their BWD line, just add "T" to the front, like TFS1. I have a question though, when it says this above:



Is that the range of when it might turn on, or is it on at 238 and off at 222? 238 seems hot to even start cooling. I'm trying to get calibrated on what hot is in a V8 though. My engine currently runs near/under 200 most of the time.
It means that the switch "closes" at 238* to turn on the fan and "opens" at 222* to turn off the fan. That is rather hot but GM wanted the engine that hot to help with the emissions, from what I read. 200* is not that bad. I'm running a 160* thermostat but I'm always hovering around 185* with a hypertech ThermoMaster MemCal.
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Apr 21, 2013 | 01:25 PM
  #103  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
I installed the TFS1 only to discover that the switch plus pigtail is so long it will hit the header. I butchered the pigtail so it is shorter and goes 90 degrees but it is sort of a hack job. I have to decide whether to go with it or buy something else...
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Apr 21, 2013 | 06:51 PM
  #104  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: I installed the TFS1 only to discover that the switch plus pigtail is so long it will hit the header. I butchered the pigtail so it is shorter and goes 90 degrees but it is sort of a hack job. I have to decide whether to go with it or buy something else...
I assume you have double fans. I did a dual fan canversion swap (had a single fan) and completely did without the switch. I did away with the switch because Im running in an extremely hot environment out in the lower section of the Mohave Desert. So when my fans turn on, they both run at the same time. Here is the link to the wiring below if you wanna forget about the switch.

http://www.metzcon.com/racing/dualfans.htm
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Apr 21, 2013 | 07:17 PM
  #105  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Deleted diagram because I have a better one
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Apr 21, 2013 | 07:27 PM
  #106  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: I have a duel fan set up with a 16in. front pusher fan that is controlled by a adjustable fan switch and set a 190* with a 180* thermostat. The stock fan is mounted on the inside with the stock temp setting of 220* or something close to that as back up. Here's the extremely easy to wire very basic adjustable switch with wiring diagram .Anyone that is wanting to use a adjustable switch than this is what I suggest = http://www.autozone.com/autozone/par...artNumber=true
Good schematic. But if you wire as the pictures shows, the fan will be on constantly, this pulling excessive draw from the battery and severely shortening the life of the fan. Granted that the fan is of brand, I'd like to make my items last. Secondly, wiring to and ignition switch source (which is more than likely a fused to the fuse box, can burn up that fuse under the dash, but MOST IMPORTANTLY, you can cause a fire if the wire gauge is not big enough.
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Apr 21, 2013 | 07:32 PM
  #107  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: Good schematic. But if you wire as the pictures shows, the fan will be on constantly, this pulling excessive draw from the battery and severely shortening the life of the fan. Granted that the fan is of brand, I'd like to make my items last. Secondly, wiring to and ignition switch source (which is more than likely a fused to the fuse box, can burn up that fuse under the dash, but MOST IMPORTANTLY, you can cause a fire if the wire gauge is not big enough.
I didn't realize the thermostat. But according to the picture, I think that type of setup involves a bulb that must be inserted into the coolant stream. Effective indeed. Good picture.
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Apr 21, 2013 | 09:08 PM
  #108  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Thanks,It has worked excellent since its install last year.
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Apr 21, 2013 | 09:26 PM
  #109  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: Thanks,It has worked excellent since its install last year.
I would definitely not go this route for 2 reasons. Sticking that in the core will cause a leak due to wear from the vehicles vibrations and second, a cheap fix can cost a hundred or so to buy a new radiator if a hole is made. Don't due a half doodoo job and cut corners. Just rewire correctly. If you want the fans to turn on sooner, you'll need to invest more money and have Tuned Performance burn you a chip with lower settings.
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Apr 22, 2013 | 04:19 PM
  #110  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Its definitely snug without vibration as you suggest , but I will still let you know in a couple of years how its doing.
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Apr 22, 2013 | 04:22 PM
  #111  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: Its definitely snug without vibration as you suggest , but I will still let you know in a couple of years how its doing.
Oh. I thought those go inbetween. Heck, even better. So that is one good alternative.
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Apr 22, 2013 | 06:54 PM
  #112  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
When I bought the car it only came with the single fan so I added a extra larger fan as the primary and that's the only way I figured I could wire it to run at the lower temp working with the 180* thermostat and using the stock fan as back up. I'm always open minded to suggestions
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Apr 22, 2013 | 07:10 PM
  #113  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: When I bought the car it only came with the single fan so I added a extra larger fan as the primary and that's the only way I figured I could wire it to run at the lower temp working with the 180* thermostat and using the stock fan as back up. I'm always open minded to suggestions
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Apr 25, 2013 | 08:59 PM
  #114  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Can anyone tell me what kind of connector I need to connect to this?



It looks like threads, but it's just ridges. Must be some kind of push-on connector.
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May 24, 2013 | 11:28 AM
  #115  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
^^

Alligator clip

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May 24, 2013 | 11:45 AM
  #116  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Wondering where you got these specs from?
I had the parts guy cross refrence the FS4 and came out to be Standard TS82 but I'd like to confirm its temp rating.

Thanks

Quote: Here are some part numbers that are easier to find locally:

Standard Motor Products part #

TS136 - closes 204 degrees
TS85 - closes at 211 degrees
TS147 - closes at 222 degrees

I have the factory dual fan setup with a 180 degree stat, and the TS85 works perfectly for the secondary fan. Comes on in traffic, and shuts off when you get moving. I would be afraid to use the TS136 because it would be running a LOT.
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May 24, 2013 | 02:23 PM
  #117  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: Another ancient thread question. I found that Oreiley has these in their BWD line, just add "T" to the front, like TFS1.
Good to know. I always had to order a Sorensen from a local parts store.

Quote: Is that the range of when it might turn on, or is it on at 238 and off at 222? 238 seems hot to even start cooling. I'm trying to get calibrated on what hot is in a V8 though. My engine currently runs near/under 200 most of the time.
If I'm not mistaken, that's the upper and lower limits of the tstat - where it turns on and off.
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May 26, 2013 | 01:10 AM
  #118  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: Can anyone tell me what kind of connector I need to connect to this?



It looks like threads, but it's just ridges. Must be some kind of push-on connector.


Pretty sure the female side of this. I have the same switch, I tried to put a nut on it like a dodo. Now I have to get one of those bullet connectors.
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May 28, 2013 | 12:49 AM
  #119  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
I like to use the Wells SW505 temp switch-its 212 on/202 off. I've been using variable 3-speed relay harnesses with 2 temp switches for low and medium fan speed then HD relay for AC over ride. Personally, I don't use the ECM for fan operation since I prefer 2-speed OEM fans or HD single speed Mark VIII fans but either way, I have found the best combination is the SW505 for a low temp switch, the SW502 is I believe 230 on/218 off or so and that is my "medium" temp switch since I use AC usage for high speed which bypasses both switches and runs the fan on 100% speed.

Just my .02 anyway.
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May 28, 2013 | 07:18 AM
  #120  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: I like to use the Wells SW505 temp switch-its 212 on/202 off. I've been using variable 3-speed relay harnesses with 2 temp switches for low and medium fan speed then HD relay for AC over ride. Personally, I don't use the ECM for fan operation since I prefer 2-speed OEM fans or HD single speed Mark VIII fans but either way, I have found the best combination is the SW505 for a low temp switch, the SW502 is I believe 230 on/218 off or so and that is my "medium" temp switch since I use AC usage for high speed which bypasses both switches and runs the fan on 100% speed.

Just my .02 anyway.
Are you using resistors for low and medium speeds?

I've been thinking about achieving low speed the way 4th gens do it, by having a relay switch dual fans to run in series, then give both fans full power for high speed.
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May 28, 2013 | 08:24 AM
  #121  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Yes....I use my own resistor style harness to control the fan speeds....it works on any fan and can be used on dual fan assemblies, too. I prefer using the most powerful fans available which means going with OEM fans so that I can use the full range of cooling capabilities if need be. From my experience some aftermarket fans may work adequately but none can compare to what most automotive manufacturers have designed. Imo, the 3rd gen setups are just outdated and there are much better, modern alternatives.
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May 28, 2013 | 09:47 AM
  #122  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Can you describe your setup in more detail? It's too late for me for now, but I went into this naively and am just firing off OEM fans from 75 amps relays. I started with my EBL ECM turning on both fans whenever it wanted, but the current draw and initial surge was a problem. I've reverted to the ECM controlling one fan and a coolant switch controlling the other, with the coolant switch being higher temp so it only comes on if things are getting very hot. Currently no provision to turn on both fans with A/C, but the A/C isn't working right now anyway. With both fans at 100% and the headlights on, I can't maintain full voltage at idle (even with 150 amp alternator), so I'm hesitant to make that be normal operation.
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May 28, 2013 | 02:56 PM
  #123  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Basically, I use a resistor to run the fan(s) at about 6V on low off the LOW temp switch which triggers a relay. Then, the "medium" temp switch triggers a second relay which directs power through a resistor that allows about 9V to the fan(s) and IF high speed is desired, I use a jumper wire between the two relays or just tie in the AC clutch coil-either way it will bypass both relays and trigger a stand alone 70-amp relay for full 100% fan speed with no resistance. Since each progressive speed is stepped up as needed starting with low speed, there's no more inrush spiking currents.
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May 28, 2013 | 03:55 PM
  #124  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: Basically, I use a resistor to run the fan(s) at about 6V on low off the LOW temp switch which triggers a relay. Then, the "medium" temp switch triggers a second relay which directs power through a resistor that allows about 9V to the fan(s) and IF high speed is desired, I use a jumper wire between the two relays or just tie in the AC clutch coil-either way it will bypass both relays and trigger a stand alone 70-amp relay for full 100% fan speed with no resistance. Since each progressive speed is stepped up as needed starting with low speed, there's no more inrush spiking currents.
Thanks. I looked briefly at resistors to try and solve inrush, but the fans pull huge current so the resistor would need to absorb huge power. What size and wattage resistor did you pick? Do you have a link or anything to the parts?
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Apr 15, 2014 | 01:32 PM
  #125  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
formula1le, what relay(s) do you use?
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Apr 15, 2014 | 01:40 PM
  #126  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
The relays are Tyco 5-pin 40 and 50 amp rated. The 50 amp relays have built in diodes, the 40 amp relays have 100V resistors internally. The resistors are basically various diameters of wound stainless wire....the ones I use work perfect for the Motorcraft fans.
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May 1, 2014 | 10:18 PM
  #127  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: Hi everyone! I thought I'd post some convenient radiator fan switch part numbers for those looking to lower their fan enable temperatures without buying the hypertech sensor.

The following part numbers can be found (or ordered) at Advance Auto Parts in the GP Sorensen line. These sensors all have a 3/8"-18 NPT thread with the same connector as what came on our cars (direct plug-and-play swap).
  • FS6 - Closes at 204*-220* F- Retail $21.59
  • FS4 - Closes at 211*-227* F- Retail $8.69
  • FS1 - Closes at 222*-238* F- Retail $9.49
  • FS3 - Closes at 240*-252* F- Who would buy this one??
FS3 is the stock replacement for the switch on a dual-fan equipped car, and FS1 is the stock replacement for the single-fan system.

Also, I have found (through personal experience) that these GP Sorensen switches do tend to close very near the beginning of the advertised range..
I have a stock 84 camaro z28 5.0 ho with stock fan with a 180 thermostat replaced the electric fan switch with one from autozone, and my car still over heats, my fans seem to not be working properly they wont turn on unless i spin the electric fan then it will stay on the. Turn back off after a while, what do you suggest i do??
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May 6, 2014 | 06:43 PM
  #128  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: I have a stock 84 camaro z28 5.0 ho with stock fan with a 180 thermostat replaced the electric fan switch with one from autozone, and my car still over heats, my fans seem to not be working properly they wont turn on unless i spin the electric fan then it will stay on the. Turn back off after a while, what do you suggest i do??
If they start when you give them a boost, sounds like the motors have an issue. I'm no expert but you probably need to replace the fans (or motors if they can be had separately). You could run +12 directly to the fan connectors and see if things are any different. If not, you know the fans are done.
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May 10, 2014 | 02:32 AM
  #129  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Here's a reputable company that has exhalent fan systems .=

http://painlessperformance.com/


I thought I would post the three adjustable fan controller diagrams I have as final drafts.
I've learned a lot over the last year and have changed to circuits that I believe are now a huge improvement and best yet are safe.
(By the way that first diagram is what came with the controller kit. Do not pay any attention to it in yours.)

This is the controller used in all three = You may need to enter the part number into the sites search bar = # 733653

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/par...67187_69565_0_

The first one is the simplest, using the circuit controlled by the switch in the head and using the single stock fan or one similar to it.



Second one is a completely independent circuit from any stock wiring.
It is for a single basic fan that can be run on a rating of a 30 or 40 amp relay.



Third one is also completely independent and for a single high amp fan.
A 130 amp alternator may be necessary for the fan.


There is a simple method of setting the fan on temp.
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Sep 24, 2014 | 01:41 PM
  #130  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
I just recieved my relay set from Formula1LE and it's fantastic. I'm not sure where I'm going to mount the resistor piece yet, but the rest of it appears very well made.
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Nov 29, 2015 | 06:18 PM
  #131  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
I'm not really understanding this system. My factory service manual shows (for my VIN 8) that the fan is controlled by the ECM. I have two fans. At least one of them is controlled by a switch on the side of the block. In my manual, it's only for VIN H cars that this system is listed. I haven't even traced my wires for the other fan to see how it is controlled.
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Jul 11, 2018 | 03:19 AM
  #132  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
I bought the FS111 (right) to replace my stock cooling fan switch. But it does not match with my stock (left) cooling fan switch.

Am I missing something? Is this the wrong part? I have a 1992 Camaro RS 305 TBI.

Thanks
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Jul 11, 2018 | 05:21 AM
  #133  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: I bought the FS111 (right) to replace my stock cooling fan switch. But it does not match with my stock (left) cooling fan switch.

Am I missing something? Is this the wrong part? I have a 1992 Camaro RS 305 TBI.

Thanks

You are showing us a knock sensor on the left, that isn’t your fan switch.. They have a similar connector but are completely different. The fan switch will be in the cylinder head; that knock sensor came from right above the oil pan in the engine block..
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Apr 15, 2019 | 08:09 AM
  #134  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: So if I am having problems with the fan coming on only when the ac is on and when I read the codes, what part should I be looking at for the v6 RS? *(I have replaced the Coolant temp sensor already, I know that the fan is good, and also have a new computer in it too.)
I guess I just havent been able to find a solution and when I saw this thread it sounded like what the problem could have been on my 91 V6
I have a V6 RS 1992 and I got the same problem. Fan turns on only with AC. How did you solve the problem?
I unplug the sensor on my intake manifold and fan in on all the time, service soon light is on, but my temp is working too!
What is going on?
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Apr 16, 2019 | 09:33 PM
  #135  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: I have a V6 RS 1992 and I got the same problem. Fan turns on only with AC. How did you solve the problem?
I unplug the sensor on my intake manifold and fan in on all the time, service soon light is on, but my temp is working too!
What is going on?
On the V6 cars, the fan is actuated by the ECM based on the temperature sensor (I believe the one that you are showing on the intake manifold) input. I think the gauge is still driven by a separate temperature sender. Take a look at the attached PDF (sorry for the crude picture). There is a way to test the ECM's ability to actuate the fan through one of the lines on the ALDL connector. Given that the A/C causes the fan to come on (indicating that the ECM is able to actuate it), I'd be looking at replacing the temperature sensor (or at least measuring its output signal (0-5Vdc) at both the sensor and at the input pin to the ECM. Hope this helps.


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Apr 16, 2019 | 10:19 PM
  #136  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
The V6 are just like the V8s, they've got the exact same temp sender for the dash gauge, it just threads into the "corner" of one of the heads.



The one in the top of the lower intake is the ECM coolant temp sensor.
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Apr 17, 2019 | 04:10 AM
  #137  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: On the V6 cars, the fan is actuated by the ECM based on the temperature sensor (I believe the one that you are showing on the intake manifold) input. I think the gauge is still driven by a separate temperature sender. Take a look at the attached PDF (sorry for the crude picture). There is a way to test the ECM's ability to actuate the fan through one of the lines on the ALDL connector. Given that the A/C causes the fan to come on (indicating that the ECM is able to actuate it), I'd be looking at replacing the temperature sensor (or at least measuring its output signal (0-5Vdc) at both the sensor and at the input pin to the ECM. Hope this helps.
Thanks for the reply.
In passengers site head there is a temp sender to my dash board with 1 pin.
In my intake manifold there is that 2 pin temp sender to my ECM.
I conclude that cause when I unplug it Radiator fan is on all the time and the ECM dont know my cars temp (not working good when its cold).
So I think I need to change the 2 pin sender from intake manifond and not the 1 pin from the head!
I ask cause I live in Greece and parts are not so easy to find.

Thank you all for your time
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Jul 13, 2019 | 07:46 AM
  #138  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives




Alright y’all...hit pretty much every thread here...GREAT info. I have a ‘91 Z28 305 TPI dual fans, just replaced radiator (Summit stock replacement aluminum 2core) and she overheated viciously on way home, secondary fan is not kicking on at all...(AC still in place but not serviced) ordering new fan switch, temp sensor, and relay from RockAuto (last two only since making the order). 2 questions: 1) should I forego the stock replacement fan switch in favor for a lowered temp, engine is completely stock but I do have a Hypertech prom not installed currently. 2) and only cause I never paid attention to the stock fans and now using an after market set that came with radiator, but are our fans “pushers” or “pullers”? Thanks in advance.
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Jul 13, 2019 | 11:32 AM
  #139  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Since they are behind the radiator they need to be PULLING air. If they're not there's your problem
And what is holding your radiator in place? You need more than radiator hoses holding it
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Jul 13, 2019 | 08:11 PM
  #140  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Quote: Since they are behind the radiator they need to be PULLING air. If they're not there's your problem
And what is holding your radiator in place? You need more than radiator hoses holding it
Just wanted to verify pusher vs puller, they are both wired as “pullers”. However the secondary isn’t energizing. She got well over heated “tap dancing on the red”.
These pics were taken before, driving, test fit of intake making sure radiator was sitting low enough. I have a couple of straps holding the radiator now while I am fabbing up an aluminum sheet metal shroud. The stock shroud just wasn’t gonna work, tried my damndest to maintain the stock look but after several mods and trimming gave up.
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Jul 14, 2019 | 12:31 AM
  #141  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives



Is their two fan relays? I found one for primary on left side firewall near master cylinder. Can anyone point me to location of the secondary fan relay? I think it’s located same location as primary but need to verify. Being in Tokyo and ordering online need to make sure so as to get everything at once. THANKS
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Jul 15, 2019 | 11:50 AM
  #142  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
if i'm not mistaken the 2nd fan relay should be pass side near your radiator /battery
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Jul 15, 2019 | 12:28 PM
  #143  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
I got a switch for my single fan (from a '84) from Painless that's 195 on/185 off.
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Aug 23, 2019 | 07:14 PM
  #144  
Re: Radiator Fan Switch Alternatives
Check these out:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/ELECTRIC-EN...53.m1438.l2649

You can select the desired temperature range for fan operation. Decent price too. Just have to change the connector on your wiring harness that is most likely brittle and broken. I put one in one of my cars for a "trial run". So far it has been working perfectly. 3/8NPT is the size needed.
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