Gizmo97

I have a quick question concerning the fan clutch on the 2002 TrailBlazer. I'm currently trying to replace mine; however, I am unable to keep the pulley from turning while I attempt to unscrew the fan from the shaft. Is there a specific tool that I have to purchase in order to hold the wheel in place while I unscrew the fan? I tried to jam it as best I could, but to no avail. If anyone has any information regarding the manual replacement of the fan clutch, I would be most obliged.

Of course, I called the dealer (from whom I had bought my new fan clutch) and asked them about the matter first; but they are not allowed to disclose such information. I mean, how can Chevrolet make money off the little guy if they offer him do-it-yourself information? And this after I spent two-hundred and some dollars buying the fan clutch from them, and aside from at least six recalls on the vehicle. I swear, I will never purchase another vehicle from Chevy.

Hope someone can help.

Thank You.

max4me

Gizmo - Just in case you are still working on this... I just did this yesterday on an Envoy and found this to also be a pain. They make a special fan clutch wrench that prevents the water pump from turning while loosening the clutch hex. Not being able to find one I was able to use a 1/2 inch wrench and use some bar stock for an extension to "jam" the water pump bolts to prevent it from turning. Then grab the clutch hex with a big crescent wrench and add elbow grease - that did it for me. Worth the trouble - saved me a $400 quoted repair bill(plus they wanted 378 for the new fan clutch) from the dealer.

Envoy Fan

Did you use the new updated fan clutch pn#15293048?

max4me

Yes I did... got it off eBay for 1/2 of what the local dealer wanted.

Envoy Fan

Good find. Was it necessary to drain the coolant?

max4me

I had a chilton manual handy which indicated I would need to remove the entire fan shroud in order to get the fan and fan clutch out. Anticipating this I did remove the radiator hose from its connection where it crosses over the top of the fan shroud. This resulted in a few cups of coolant draining. However, I found that not only was removing the fan shroud difficult (I couldn't do it), I didn't need to. I was able to disconnect the fan from the fan clutch while still in the shroud and then was able to wiggle both the fan and the fan clutch from the shroud without removing the shroud. Its tricky but seemed easier than removing the shroud too. Good Luck!