Thread: Electric VS Mechanical cooloing fans

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Things I've learned from this thread so far.

#1. Mechanical fans more more air....This is a good thing since I'm towing.
#2. Electric fans work best in tight areas...... This is not a problem for me. I have plently of room.

For either, a really good fan shroud is important....one with no gaps that leak. Remember, you are trying to get the air moving across ALL the radiator surface....not just the small circle that the fan projects onto the radiator.

I could pretty much sign my name to Mike's post and be done with it.
One other thing though, is the thermostatically-controlled fan clutch. Sounds like you don't have one, so the fan is running water pump speed all the time. Mounting a clutch will reduce noise and improve fuel mileage.

As far as whether you can save any energy with an electric ANYTHING, if you have studied any physics at all, you will learn that it takes the same amount of energy to move "X" CFM of air, no matter whether you are doing it mechanically or electrically. The electric fan just puts more drag on the alternator, which is crank-driven!!!!