Three bladed fan?
 

That's right. Took a good look at the fan the other day and discovered it was three-bladed. What the...? Was this normal on an '86 truck or a '78 motor? Whatever, that thing needs to be replaced with a much better fan and soon as I don't think the three bladed model can move enough air to cool the engine while towing.

Anyone tried the flex-i-lite or perma-cool flexible fans? They look like they might be just the ticket.

Mike
Grand Haven, MI

my 86 with the 4.3 has one of them one day when i find parts for it ill switch it out with one of the five blade clutch fans

I had a 81 305 that had a 3 bladed clutch fan.

Yes you did, and what a pig it was!!! :D :lol:

My 86 had a 4.3 V6 with a 3 blade fan too. I still have it in the garage.

I had a flex-fan blow up on me one time and take out the radiator so I will never use another.

Still better than that pig you own. I drove it anywhere. . . . . . :P

I would also have to vote against the flex fan. I had one and it didnt work well. Couldnt keep the truck cool in the heat. I say go with a stock clutch fan or upgrade to an electric fan.

Thanks for the feedback. Guess I just wasn't expecting to see a three-bladed fan. In my life I've driven the following with clutch fans: '74 Pontiac Grandville w/455, '79 Olds Delta 88 Custom Cruiser w/350, '02 Chevrolet Silverado w/5.3. All of them had five bladed fans so I just kind of expected it.

Perhaps I'll make a stop at one of the local "u wrench it" autoparts establishments and see if I can find a five bladed fan that will fit.

Thanks!

Mike
Grand Haven, MI