Rex Funk wrote:
> The alternator bracket on My S II worked loose at the water pump bolt, and
> I noticed a residue of coolant in the engine compartment. I removed the
> pump, inspected the bearing and seal and, using some Permatex Ultra Copper
> to seal the new gaskets, I reinstalled it.
>
> Upon examining the 4 blade stock fan, I noticed that it had a subtle
> hairline crack halfway across one blade near the base. So far, I've had
> one of these fans bury itself in my radiator, while taking a turn, and
> another one just plain break at low speed. At the last SUNI, a guy had one
> give way and go through his hood at road speed. If Rootes were still in
> business, this fan would be a recall item for sure. I recommend strongly
> against using the 4 blade stock fan. If you do, take it completely off and
> inspect it frequently (magnifluxing can't hurt).
>
> I went to the parts bin and discovered an older 6-blade fan. This item was
> used on some of the S-1s and maybe other early Alpines as well as some of
> the sedans. It is stouter, and less likely to crack, but about twice as
> heavy as the stock fan (plate steel and rivets vs. thinner pressed and
> welded steel). I decided to give my Honda Civic electric fan a chance to
> earn it's keep. It is mounted ahead of the radiator. I put everything
> back together, but left out the mechanical fan. In moderate evening
> temperatures, the engine temps were comparable to running both mechanical
> and electric fans. I will check it out in the heat later. The coolant
> leak was fixed. It looks a little weird with no stock fan, but I can
> definitely tell the difference in engine response. I wouldn't take this
> setup to SUNI, but it looks like it has promise for a daily driver. It
> also made me think about lightening the flywheel.
>
> Rex Funk