Electric Fans For 1997 K3500 W/454 Vortec?

[wirlybird]

Me again!

I have read that switching over to electric cooling fans on this truck can add a little performance and mileage.

Is this a worthwhile update?

If so any recommended suppliers/kits?

Thanks!

[Blue Bowtie]

I have seen those comments and read those stories as well. It's good that you're doing research before jumping in with both feet.

1. GM was installing electric fans in vehicles long before 1997. It's not only a fan, but a system. In some applications, electric fans can make sense.

2. If there is any engine that would struggle turning a mechanical fan, it is NOT a 454. It idles with probably more torque than many 1.8L, fourteen-camshaft, 30 valve per cylinder, go-kart engines make at full throttle.

3. Electric fans merely move the load from the water pump hub to the alternator (and wiring), and add inefficiency in the process.

4. Nothing, electric fans included, is more effective than a properly sized, properly ducted, and properly functioning mechanical fan with a hydro-viscous clutch for cooling - In my opinion. You can ADD an electric pusher fan for cooling without creating a problem, but removing the stock plastic clutch fan and shroud will likely create more problems than it solves, and will result in a net zero gain in performance and fuel mileage.

Search around some other forums. Look at what happens in S-trucks, Trailblazers/Envoys, and similar vehicles if/when electric fans are retrofitted and mechanical fans removed.

[wirlybird]

Thanks for the common sense info. Had to chuckle at this and couldn't agree more!
"struggle turning a mechanical fan, it is NOT a 454".

On one hand I understand the theory behind removing the mechanical fan for a HP/performance gain, kind of like don't run the A/C!

I also think electric fans would put minimal load on the electrical.

With all that said I do agree that the factory system is pretty proven.
If converting to electric fans will realize negligible performance gains then it is not worth the cost.

I'm sure there will be other ways to gain performance/HP that are more benificial.

[Schurkey]

Originally Posted by wirlybird

I also think electric fans would put minimal load on the electrical..

You need to check out the fuse sizes on the bigger electric fans. They suck electrical power like mad.