How to Replace a Jeep Cherokee Fan Clutch
by Gary Proulx
The mechanical fan in your Jeep Cherokee uses a viscous clutch to keep the engine within its normal operating temperature zone. A damaged or defective fan clutch can quickly lead to overheating. It is a good idea to routinely inspect the fan and its clutch, as it is difficult to detect any damage to the assembly by simply looking at it. With the engine off and cold, the fan should freely rotate by hand. With the engine off and hot, the fan should exhibit some drag when turned by hand.
Step 1
Open the hood of your Cherokee. Remove the negative battery clamp by using the wrench to turn the clamp nut in a counterclockwise direction. The negative terminal is marked by a " - " symbol on the battery case, near the clamp.
Step 2
Remove the shroud mounting bolts from the top of the shroud by using the wrench to turn them counterclockwise. The shroud is the plastic enclosure which surrounds the fan. Pull the shroud up and over the fan.
Step 3
Locate the clutch, which is bolted to the back of the fan. Remove the four clutch mounting bolts on the back of the clutch by turning them counterclockwise with the wrench. Remove the fan and clutch assembly from the engine compartment.
Step 4
Remove the bolts and nuts that attach the fan to the clutch by turning the bolts counterclockwise with the wrench. These bolts and nuts will be reused to mount the fan onto the new clutch.
Step 5
Place the fan onto the new clutch. Tighten the fan mounting bolts and nuts by turning them clockwise with the wrench.
Step 6
Reinstall the four clutch mounting bolts by turning them clockwise with the wrench.
Step 7
Place the shroud back into position. Tighten the shroud mounting bolts by turning them in a clockwise direction with the wrench.
Step 8
Reconnect the negative battery clamp by turning the clamp nut clockwise with the wrench.
References
- " Jeep Cherokee 1984 thru 2001, Haynes Repair Manual"; Bob Henderson and John H. Haynes; 2005
Tips
- The clutch mounting bolts are small and easy to drop when removing. Place a sheet or cloth under the vehicle to make it easier to find dropped nuts.
Things You'll Need
- Wrench set
Warnings
- Never work on or around the fan if the engine is running.
- Do not allow the fan to come into contact with the radiator fins.
Writer Bio
Gary Proulx has been writing since 1980. He specializes in automotive technology and gasoline and diesel design. Proulx has had multiple articles published on various websites. He is also an archery expert who writes about the ins and outs of archery as a sport.
