In our ever-challenging economy, saving money is of the utmost importance. Gas is at an all-time high with no relief in sight. Attempting to make the most of every $80 fill-up, we contacted Performance Products for a dual electric fan setup from Flex-a-lite.
Flex-a-lite fans are made from glass-reinforced nylon-injected molds, making them lightweight yet very strong. This kit came with two 15-inch puller fans and was equipped with a variable speed switch and adjustable thermostat for added cooling. These fans are guaranteed power-adders. How so? Because you take off your power-robbing fan clutch, that spins on the inertia created by your engine, which turns the water pump pulley. The catch is, the engine works harder once the clutch fan is engaged, which steals power from your engine and mpg from your wallet.
We saw this upgrade as a no-brainer. For the quick install, we headed over to Bogart Automotive in Mission Viejo, California, where the reputation for quality work was well-respected. Check out the photos of the install, and if your fan clutch is robbing your engine of power and mileage, give Performance Products a call for a Flex-a-lite fan.
With the hood popped at Bogart...
With the hood popped at Bogart Automotive in Mission Viejo, California, installer Sam began the tear-down process. Take a look at the huge fan shroud on our test F-150 with the 4.6L V-8.
Skipping the large wrench...
Skipping the large wrench and mini-sledge technique, Sam grabbed an air chisel and appropriate-sized wrench, then busted the large nut loose on the fan clutch. This part required skill and patience; even with an air chisel.
After the nut was removed...
After the nut was removed from the water pump spline, Sam unclipped the fan cover from the radiator core support, unbolted the fan shroud, and the fan clutch was pulled free and discarded.
Next up, the fan shroud was...
Next up, the fan shroud was removed.
Take a look at how much room...
Take a look at how much room was freed up from the fan clutch and shroud removal.
Out of the packaged box, the...
Out of the packaged box, the new Flex-a-lite dual electric fans came with mounting hardware, wiring, an adjustable thermostat, and a relay box.