How to check cooling fans?

[jeremyc]

Anyone got any pointers as to how to check that both radiator cooling fans are working?

I can hear the second fan kick in, but haven't been able to hear the first turn on. Is the first fan as loud as the second?

[crazycats]

erm..................open the bonnet, and have a look

[jeremyc]

crazycats said:

erm..................open the bonnet, and have a look

Not so easy on my later model that has a large panel covering them.

I'll try and find a photo....

Edited to add: this is all you can see when the bonnet is open:


>> Edited by jeremyc on Friday 19th March 19:29

[kojak69]

on opening the bonnet and having a look.

>> Edited by kojak69 on Friday 19th March 21:20

[jeremyc]

kojak69 said:

Errr, yes what?

[crazycats]

jeremyc said:

crazycats said: erm..................open the bonnet, and have a look Not so easy on my later model that has a large panel covering them. I'll try and find a photo.... Edited to add: this is all you can see when the bonnet is open: >> Edited by jeremyc on Friday 19th March 19:29

OK, apologies for the sarcastic comment,

You'll either have to remove that panel, or get someone with a laptop, and the software......which tells you when each fan is on, and at what temperature.

Edited to add:-

Just seen your other thread regarding the temp. sensors, you're right to assume that there are 2

The ECU's one is electrical, and the one for the guage is a capillary type.

Both can be found in one of the metal cooling pipes hidden under that panel


>> Edited by crazycats on Friday 19th March 20:08

[jeremyc]

crazycats said:

You'll either have to remove that panel, or get someone with a laptop, and the software......which tells you when each fan is on, and at what temperature.

But surely that will just tell you that the ECU thinks its turned the fan on, not whether the blades are actually turning.

There's a lot of wiring and connectors and motors between the ECU and air being caused to be moved.

[jeremyc]

I guess to simplify my question: can you guys hear fan number 1 when it is running?

Is it as loud as fan number 2?

[crazycats]

jeremyc said:

But surely that will just tell you that the ECU thinks its turned the fan on, not whether the blades are actually turning. There's a lot of wiring and connectors and motors between the ECU and air being caused to be moved.

Good point, and to be honest I'm not sure,

All I know is that when my fan/s come on, the screen says its on, and I can see it, and hear it......next time I'm plugged into the pooter I'll try pulling the fans fuses, and see what happens.

[crazycats]

jeremyc said:

I guess to simplify my question: can you guys hear fan number 1 when it is running? Is it as loud as fan number 2?

The time I hear mine the most, is when I've come back from a decent run, and i switch the motor off while the fans are running......put the ignition on again, and the fans will run, and you'll hear one cut out, shortly followed by the other one......IIRC they're supposed to be on at 92 and 95 degrees

[julian64]

The easiest way is to have a look from underneath.

Friendly garage to hoist your car up while it is running.

Or a careful hand under the car while they are running.

[_DJ_]

I was just about to say that. Having said that, the cover is only secured using 2 bolts so if you're got a set of allen keys it's a 2 minute job.

Darren,

[shpub]

Remove the cover. Takes a bit more than two minutes as it has to be manipulated around the air pipes and rad hose. The air intake hoses need to be removed. Disconnect the temp sensor by the thermostat and turn the ignition on and the ECU will ever so nicely switch both fans on for you.

[Julian64]

More than two screws as well, cos there are two up on each side under the air intakes.

[crazycats]

shpub said:

Disconnect the temp sensor by the thermostat and turn the ignition on and the ECU will ever so nicely switch both fans on for you.

That's a tip to remember...nice one Steve

[wokkadriver]

Interested to see the two air filters on the piccy there. Does it help? I know that the increased surface area will be better than the usual small hole at the front of the car, but do you lose out for the increased temperature (it's gotta be hot in that engine bay!)