Just a note on the electric vs. belt-driven fan question. The same thing came up on the autocross-list about a year and a half ago (?), with a question as to whether there would be a power saving if the mechanical fan were removed.
The answer was that, basically, it would be infinitessemal. (sp?) Yes, the fan creates mechanical drag, which takes up power. But how much power can you actually transmit through a 3/8" rubber belt?
I forget the engineering-heavy answer, but it's under 5 HP and possibly two or less.
So, fan drag + water pump drag + alternator/generator drag = something between 2 and 5 hp. (?) Take away the fan drag, you'll gain a little, but the alt/gen will work harder when the fan is on. When it's off, i.e. at speed, the motor will have (a little tiny bit) less drag and there will be less noise, and fewer bits flying off.
For my 2 cents, it's a good idea. I drive in heat, traffic, and so forth, and don't like the idea of the disintegrating 35 yr old mechanical fans. I just wouldn't bet on a sudden power increase.
Just passing along an opinion...
M.
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