In a message dated 6/2/98 7:50:49 PM Central Daylight Time,
svieth@ameritech.net writes:
<< The viscosity of the fluid clutch increases as the temp behind
the radiator rises. If the clutch doesn't get as hot, the fluid
won't get as thick and the engine won't have to work so hard
to turn that windmill. >>
WRONG!!
The viscous coupling fluid does not change viscosity with temperature (at
least not with the intent of spinning the fan). The fan is basically a pump
internally. On the front of the clutch is a Bimetal element shaped like a
spring. The center of the element is attached to a small shaft. As the
element heats, it twists the shaft which is attached to a valve inside the
clutch. As the valve closes, it causes more restriction in the fluid path,
and therefore more engine torque is passed on to the fan blades.
FYI - The FSM has a specific procedure for determining whether this clutch is
good or bad!
Richard Lewis, Tomball Tx
92 LE CC, 318, Auto.
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