Ian'sTA

What do you guys recommend for the best flex fan, non-clutch, manual for an '82 Firebird? Need brand/size? Got specific links? Thanks.

elky74

Check the stainless steel Flex-a-lite fans at Summit.com. I plan to use a GM clutch fan myself, but my two A-bodies have flex fans. So far, no problems, but they can be a little noisy. Just make sure you check the specs on it to ensure you get one that can handle your particular horsepower.
Also, the fan will require a spacer, which I think is sold separately. Good luck.

Phil

Ian'sTA

Got'cha! Thanks.

elky74

bluegrassz

iTrader: (3)

Is there any certain reason you want to run a flex fan instead of a electric one?

With an electric, you will have less drag on the motor. Not to mention its easier on the hands. lol.

Ian'sTA

Many people on another board I belong to told me that both clutch & elec fans are junk. The store where I buy my performance parts also told me the same exact thing. One friend told me this:

You see, what's cool about flex-a-lite fans (pun intended) is that they spin with the motor. Whatever RPM your motor is turning....that's how fast the fan is spinning. So, you will get the maximum cooling effect even sitting in traffic at a dead stop. They have an awesome roaring sound to them as well. Clutch fans will slow down...almost stopping in traffic....and sometimes when they are worn out, they will not spin as fast when going say 65mph down the road. Electric fans kick on only when they are "needed" which is never sufficient for a Chevy motor. Not to mention, it's electric, so the switch has a tendency to fail...and you won't know it until the temp gauge starts getting too high.

bluegrassz

iTrader: (3)

I understand what you are say. You dont run the risk of it felling like the electric or clutch fans.

But, the flex fan does put more strain on the motor. It also is spinning during startup so it takes longer to reach opperating temps.

With the electric fan, you can get a temp switch for it to come on earlier. And you can wire in a toggle switch to turn it on at any time. Look at how many cars come out with electric vs flex/clutch fans. I have a 99 Jeep Grand Cherokee, it has both electric and clutch fans.

Dont get me wrong, the flex fan will work, and you may be totally happy with it. Im just giving you a few things to think about.

327_TPI_77_Maro

iTrader: (8)

Flex fans are a lot less efficient than clutch fans. Whoever told you that a flex fan is better than a clutch or electric fan has no idea what they are talking about. Tests have been done to prove this. There is no reason not to run a clutch fan. The clutch is supposed to stop the fan when either the temp for the thermostatic clutch has been reached, or when you are travelling on the highway at high speeds. A flexfan on the highway is blocking most of the air from coming through your radiator. Also a clutch fan will not "stop in traffic". LOL. wow. The only thing a flex fan is better than is a solid, fixed fan. That's it.

Randy82WS7

the clutch fans lock in when they are hot, release/slip when cold, they wear out eventually, and almost any old original one still aorund is junk by now, new clutches are dirt cheap liek 15 bucks


good luck

Apeiron

More like $40.