Fan Clutch Symptoms? How loud is yours?

[JerkyDrewster]

Attempting to replace the fan clutch, however, it appears the bolts have been previously tightened way past the recommended torque - SVM says 45 in/lbs. Sprayed with PB Blaster twice over the last 36 hrs, and allowed it to sit and penetrate to no avail I'm using the open side of a 12 mm wrench, and the corners are rounding. There's no visible corrosion on the nuts and bolts.

Ideas?

You could try using a 6-point box wrench instead of the open-end wrench. If that doesn't work, you could try to use a large crescent if it fits in the space. If it is rusted, you could get some heat on it as well. Good luck!

 

[TheDurk]

You could try using a 6-point box wrench instead of the open-end wrench. If that doesn't work, you could try to use a large crescent if it fits in the space. If it is rusted, you could get some heat on it as well. Good luck!

+1 on the 6-point. Then, suggest you try giving it force in the tighten direction to see if it can break loose that way. Sometimes that's what it takes (because rounding is directional, so you can get more force in the direction to tighten to break it loose, then reverse to remove--old farmer trick)

 

[DontKnowRunner]

+1 on the 6-point. Then, suggest you try giving it force in the tighten direction to see if it can break loose that way. Sometimes that's what it takes (because rounding is directional, so you can get more force in the direction to tighten to break it loose, then reverse to remove--old farmer trick)

:-( Couldn't get my hands on a 6 point today. Thx for the advice about tightening too. I'll have to get a six point Monday.


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[DontKnowRunner]

Update: The 6 point did the job on the fan clutch. Replaced the fan clutch. No change. Replaced the t-stay. Engine temps now consistently 188 - 190


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[superspeckman]

Oh man was this thread helpful. I've only had the 4runner about a month but always thought the fan sounded loud. From looking at it I assumed it changed speed with the RPM all the time. I picked up an Aisin clutch off of Amazon for $85 and it's like driving a whole new truck, so quiet!

 

[tystaco]

I started my 99 this morning and the thing was ROARING. It was 5:26am and I was headed to the gym, so I will dive in deeper this afternoon after work.

I have been having some intermitent starting issues where I have a longer crank/sputter but then it runs fine. At first I was thinking vacuum leak that maybe broke open, but again, I will see once I pop the hood. Was hoping the issues were related, but after reading this thread I won't be surprised to have to replace the fan clutch (went ahead and ordered one just now for $88 of amazon, figure of my 3 5VZ's, one can probably use it) and still track down the starting issue.

 

[Sgtausy]

Wobble

My fan clutch is still good but it is just a hair wobbly. Not 100% sure that if I replace it that will stop.

 

[SeaBass8]

About a month ago I noticed the roaring engine sound getting louder and found this thread. RockAuto has the Aisin fan clutch for about 76$. Easy to install and has remedied the problem. I was not experiencing any other issues but very noticeable difference in noise level when driving now. Very happy I did this. Highly recommended.

 

[MVP]

About a month ago I noticed the roaring engine sound getting louder and found this thread. RockAuto has the Aisin fan clutch for about 76$. Easy to install and has remedied the problem. I was not experiencing any other issues but very noticeable difference in noise level when driving now. Very happy I did this. Highly recommended.

Great thread. Here is my summary: replace the fan clutch and if that doesn't work then replace the thermostat.

:yo:

 

[jgue467]

Many times (for me anyway) simply oiling the front of the clutch where the spring is get's it loose from rust and debris. Worked for me, might for someone else and save some bucks! :cowboy: