98' Disco overheats only while driving and returns to normal temps while stopped or at idle. New stat.. Pumps good and no leaks. 218k miles. Is this a sign of plugged radiator or air in system? If plugged radiator will a pro flush help?

 

A new fan clutch is cheaper than a re-cored or new radiator.


In the end, I did both.

At 218k I would very much expect both to need attention.

 

How do I tell if clutch fan is bad?

 

when the fan clutch is engaged it should sound like a jet engine under the hood when you accelerate.
also if you can spin the 'cold engine' fan and it continues to spin = bad
plus if its got over 100k - its likely bad

they have viscous fluid in them that wheres out or leaks out over time

 

Roger that. I'll do a spin test. Anyone wire a/c fan on a switch to keep it on as needed? Looking to have some extra air flow and want a/c fan on as needed but not sure how to wire.

 

My experience was that typical fan clutch "spin test" was not conclusive. For $30 just replace it.

Some have wired A/C fans to turn on manually. Should be some threads about that here.

While shopping, a $12 IR temp gun is a handy tool to help diagnose temp issues as it helps pinpoint hot spots and cooler spots.

 

Fan spun freely while cold. Started engine and was able to stop fan with a piece of cardboard with minimal resistance. Bad fan clutch it is.

 

whoa - yeah Id say so

FYI - I had originally replaced mine with a URO brand and it was always engaged. Beck/Arnley brand is twice as much but it works properly.

 

Just a quick question, has anyone tried the SKP SK46071 fan clutch? It's on

 

The SKP is just another cheap POS ( $29.79 @RockAuto ), Made in China fan clutch.