Radiator Fans - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

Deuce · 11-13-2003, 06:20 PM

On gen 3 5SFE's, is one of the radiator fans supposed to be operational all the time? When I turn the a/c on, both fans turn fast, but when its off, nothing moves.

Thanks for the help, I'm trying to figure out if my engine is overheating and my instrument panel temp gauge is malfunctioning.

5Sfte · 11-13-2003, 08:47 PM

The fan should turn on as needed. The coolant temp is the deciding factor to if it runs or not. If it does not run at all without the A/C, something is wrong there and not with the temp. gauge.

Deuce · 11-13-2003, 10:25 PM

cool...thx 4 da help

eecc · 11-13-2003, 10:27 PM

jus a question out of curiosity, do the fans blow at the radiator or blow towards the engine?

mdvb747 · 11-14-2003, 01:05 AM

They blow to the engine.

88 LE · 11-14-2003, 10:13 AM

Have you tried pulling the plug from the ECT (engine coolant temp) sensor to see if the fans kick on?

I forget if you just pull the plug or if you have to pull the plug and short the 2 wires on the connector together.

***BLUEMEANIE*** · 11-14-2003, 12:07 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by mdvb747
They blow to the engine.

Yup. "Puller" type fans, meaning they pull the air thru the rad. "Pusher" type would be mounted in front of the rad.

OEMonkey · 11-14-2003, 09:32 PM

the fans will only come on when your idling or at low speed. when your cruising it gets ram air so it wont need the puller fans.
when you turn the ac on, the fans will come on to help the condenser dissipate heat.
when your idling at operating temps.(175-195deg. F depending on what car), the fans will come on. they will not come on if the car is cold.
or do what 88LE said and unplug the ECTS. the fans should kick in. if not, check the fuses, main fan relay, or there might be a short between relay and ECTS.