Electric radiator fan conversion (1975 Buick LeSabre)

Discussion in 'Sparky's corner' started by 64Chevelle, Mar 12, 2013.

  1. 64Chevelle

    64Chevelle Member

    Hi,

    I've got a bone stock 1975 Buick LeSabre. If the aftermarket water temp gauge works correctly it seems to never reach operating temperature, I've never seen it go past 65C/150F. That said, I've not gotten to drive it in the heat of summer yet... It's got a brand new radiator and the engine driven fan seems to be really, really powerful.

    Anyways, to reach correct operating temperature in the summer and to free up some (much needed) power I though I should invest in an electric radiator fan conversion. The wiring part and thermostat/relay I've already got covered, I've done this in all my other cars, but I need some help with the fan. Any recommendations? I hope to find something matching the stock shroud for a plug&play conversion, or at least keep modifications to a minimum.

    Thanks in advance for any suggestions or ideas!
     
  2. austingta

    austingta Well-Known Member

    I would invest in a functioning thermostat first.
     
  3. gstewart

    gstewart Well-Known Member

    and/or - a temp sending unit and temp gauge.
     
  4. 64Chevelle

    64Chevelle Member

    I've already got a temp sending unit and water temp gauge. I'll check where the temp sending unit is installed to make sure it's not installed before the thermostat.

    Regarding the thermostat, u'r right, I should check that.

    No matter what, I'm going to convert it to an electric fan, having the fan blow like crazy when starting a cold engine just makes it take longer to reach operating temp, not to mention it robs some power as well. So my question still is if there are any fans, donor car or aftermarket, to fit the stock radiator shroud?
     
  5. flynbuick

    flynbuick Guest

    Yes but change this will raise the need for wiring, relay and circuit breaker changes. The fan clutch and an operating thermostat will address your warm up issues.
     
  6. LARRY70GS

    LARRY70GS a.k.a. "THE WIZARD" Staff Member

    That's a big waste of money IMHO. There is no circulation through the radiator until the thermostat opens. Put a new stat into it, and recheck. Also, you have an aftermarket temperature gauge? What brand? Electric fans draw a lot of amps. You'll probably need an upgraded alternator. With a good radiator, all you need is a factory fan and fan clutch, coupled with a good shroud.
     

Share This Page