Pros and cons on replacing the radiator stock viscous fan clutch with a flexible blades one ?

With the same 18" diameter, wide blades or narrow blades; preferred proven brand; which one fits the pump pulley 3 bolt pattern; spacers; experiences on the adaptation; results ?

 

Why would you want to replace it?

 

If you're trying to save money, look for the Chevy Astro Van fan clutch mod on the forum.

 

Flex blades may flex and fly apart after awhile.

If you need a clutch, new viscous clutch that goes on a 2000 Chevy Express van 4.3 liter, w/o AC will fit. About $60. You have to enlarge your fan mount holes slightly, the chevy clutch uses bigger bolts.

If you want to tinker with fans, a fan and clutch from boneyard is like $20. I have one from a 2000 Blazer, the fan is deeper and more pitched, more air flow, but blades have to be carefully trimmed to maintain balance and fit inside the venturi. Mine is a D1, same water pump as D2, but may have clearance issues with depth. Just pointing out that the boneyard could be a source for those needing a fix a long way from parts or payday.

On a Rover many of us have to watch overheating so airflow is more important than a small mpg change.

 

Thanks Mike and SSL.
Because certainty it will not slip and can truly tell its health state plus a good dosage of paranoia.

Unable to find that Astro van adaptation on a forum search. By the way, my other car, a 1962 Caddy has a 4.3L '97 Astro Van engine + tranny 12 years now, and such clutch fan too. The best thing I have done to an old car

Edited- added: Thanks, Buzz. I was typing while you posted. It is not mpg, is peace of mind. Plus the paranoia !

 

What about electrics? Taurus, aftermarket? Looking for improved flow at lower vehicle speeds over the stock clutch fan and two small electrics.

 

It was a Chevy Blazer, my bad. Advance Auto part #215157. $47.99 at my local store, as opposed to $202.99 for the "exact fit" model.