Wiring a fan thermostat?

I mentioned my SBC '32 roadster that is new to me in another thread. Here I'd like to get some advice on an elec fan thermostat.

Currently the car's fan is wired to come on with the ign switch. I also believe the car doesn't have a coolant thermostat in it. It takes a while to warm up and usually operates at about 140 degrees according to the Dolphin temp gauge. In addition to flushing the coolant and adding a thermostat, I'd like to install a thermostat for the fan so it only runs when needed.

Some of the cheaper ones I'm seeing have a probe you are supposed to "insert" into the radiator fins. The fins on the radiator are so close together, I don't see how this would work without cracking the fins.

Are there any kits you can recommend that would simply use the existing temp sensor in the manifold that goes to my temp gauge?

As a side note, let me say I appreciate the hospitable attitude that seems to be a part of this forum. Lots of forums tend to dogpile on new members that ask newbie questions. Thank you.

I'm using the Dakota Digital controller on my fans, it will operate two separate fans or one 2 speed fan. Completely programable for temps and it works off of the motor's existing sending unit (no probe). I have a 160° thermostat and let the fans regulate the temps from there. I'm real pleased with how it works for my fans.

I've always used thermal switches to control a relay, which controls the fan.

Perhaps you have a plugged-off coolant port where you could install a temp switch. The rest is easy.

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Originally Posted by 36 sedan

I'm using the Dakota Digital controller on my fans, it will operate two separate fans or one 2 speed fan. Completely programable for temps and it works off of the motor's existing sending unit (no probe). I have a 160° thermostat and let the fans regulate the temps from there. I'm real pleased with how it works for my fans.

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Thanks. That looks like it might be perfect.

I'm glad you found what your searching for, what temp range will you use for a thermostat?

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Originally Posted by 34_40

I'm glad you found what your searching for, what temp range will you use for a thermostat?

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Good question. I've always thought a 170-180 degree thermostat a good choice, but I've never had a car with an elec fan before. At least not a hot rod. 36sedan's setup makes logical sense to me.

I'm running a 180 degree stat, but the actual temperature coming off of the water passages near the head is right at 190 degrees. I let the thermostat handle loads up to 195 degrees, where the fan comes on low speed. If the temps get up to 210 degrees the high speed kicks in, as it does if the AC is turned on. My fan rarely runs.

I run a 180 also. and my temp switch is a 190. My fan runs when I'm in town.

I wouldn't run one any cooler! To cold (like your 140 - 150 degrees) is more harmfull than good.