Electric Fan

[dec322]

What is the most common way to do this? Do you guys go custom or get a specific vehicle fit?

JK....feel free to guide me in this. :)

[JKmotorsports]

The easiest way IMO for most people is to use a stock e-fan assembly. Pretty much plug and play. Then all you have to do is program the PCM to turn the fans on at a certain temp.
I did mine from scratch though with everything aftermarket, from the fans, wiring, and thermostat control.

[danimalmax]

jk when u say stock fan assembly, do u mean they built stock fans for like 05 or 06 tahoes? so i would have to buy one of those or get one off a newer year and put it in mine?

[JKmotorsports]

Yes sir. IIRC, i believe it was 05 up GM full size trucks when they started using e-fans.

[jmildoc]

please point me in the right direction for this I would love to do this to my truck, does it free up some power?

[blueflamed03]

http://www.performancetrucks.net/forums/showthread.php?t=396716&highlight=electric+fan+swap

http://www.performancetrucks.net/forums/showthread.php?t=421378&highlight=electric+fan+swap

[Volant1]

I just installed the purma cool dual fan pack its just a few bolts and a three wire hookup

[bass1775]

Key an eye on the e fans. I had several problems with the perma cool fans, the connector that holds the fan to the fan motor's shaft kept coming loose. Perma cool sent replacement connectors, a replacement motor (under warranty) but then the other fan started doing the same thing. I eventually yanked it out and went back to the stock assembly. I was concerned that the fan would come loose and hit the radiator. Ouch!

[Volant1]

Who are you dealing with, it should be a guy named Mike, this is my fourth fan pack ive never had a problem, If it was just a connector coming loose why not just fab something so it stays tight?

[jmildoc]

so you are happy with yours Volant? What did it run you?

[dec322]

Hmm....I read through the links above and didn't get alot of guidance on specifics. Well, I guess I did learn that I could use LT1 or LS1 fans and I need to check out the size of my radiator.

The reason I'm looking into this is because I want to increase gas mileage...and I just like to mod vehicles. :)

Did you guys notice any increase in gas mileage? Also, explain the PCM thing? Where would I get it reprogrammed?

I saw a direct replacement on stylintrucks but they wanted around $625 and it came with instructions.

[Volant1]

Well fan units are around 450.00, I traded some work for mine but they are worth every penny I saw a 15 hp gain as far as MPG I stopped looking at it once it dropped under 13mpg but it like are motto says save gas OR go fast

[JKmotorsports]

My entire set-up cost less than $100. I got two new 16" Pro-form fans and an adjustable thermostat. All the relays and wiring I had laying around, but even that stuff is cheap if you had to buy it. I got the fans from ebay and the thermostat control from Autozone.

[dec322]

My entire set-up cost less than $100. I got two new 16" Pro-form fans and an adjustable thermostat. All the relays and wiring I had laying around, but even that stuff is cheap if you had to buy it. I got the fans from ebay and the thermostat control from Autozone.

Now all we need is a "How-to" on this forum and you can do this to my truck while I take pictures. Then the whole forum can benefit.

About going fast, I'm not interested. I've owned a few mustangs and want another one. This truck cannot meet that desire so I'm not going to put money towards that goal.

[Volant1]

I never said you had to run a fan pack, I just answered your question there are alot of options to doing this I see the OEM pack on craigslist from time to time, you can also buy a wiring kit and a fan and make your own housing http://store.summitracing.com/egnsearch.asp?SearchType=Make&N=700+4294924642+4294908216+4294907940+115+4294924 500

[tybardy]

check out the local junk yards man... efans are sure to be laying around as the tahoe/yukon/escalade is a pretty common truck and the efans are in those in 2005 and 2006...

---------- Post added at 03:36 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:32 PM ----------

here is another option, and the one i am thinking about doing myself...

you can use the LS1 fans like this

ROD_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp3286Q2em20Q2el1116Q QhashZitem1c09a23793QQitemZ120420710291QQptZMotors Q5fCarQ5fTruckQ5fPartsQ5fAccessories

it will require you to "custom" fit the shroud a bit but i have seen this done on "other" forums.. haha

after that you will need the wire harness and turn on the pins on the PCM

[kd_unruh]

I picked up some fans from a 99 Firebird V-8 in a local salvage yard for around $70. I picked up the harness from Justin at Blackbear for around $80. I haven't put them in yet, but that's the amount I have sunk into this endeavor. Not bad. I'm hoping for a decent power gain and a little mileage boost.

[tybardy]

I picked up some fans from a 99 Firebird V-8 in a local salvage yard for around $70. I picked up the harness from Justin at Blackbear for around $80. I haven't put them in yet, but that's the amount I have sunk into this endeavor. Not bad. I'm hoping for a decent power gain and a little mileage boost.

i would think you would see an MPG boost more then you would see a power gain

[jmildoc]

JK How did you wire it up for the fans to come on?

[JKmotorsports]

JK How did you wire it up for the fans to come on?
I used an adjustable thermostat and two relays (one for each fan). I also wired it to the ac clutch so the fans turn on whenever the ac is on.
Each fan has its own relay and fused power supply. That way if one component goes out, the other fan is still active. The thermostat activates the relays to turn the fans on.

[dec322]

Adjustable thermostat? Are you talking about the one in the thermostat housing (neck)?

I'd love some pictures.

[JKmotorsports]

Adjustable thermostat? Are you talking about the one in the thermostat housing (neck)?

I'd love some pictures.

I bought it from Autozone. It's basically a probe that goes in between the radiator fins and can be adjusted to turn on the fans at just about any temp. IIRC, it was only $17 and has been working perfect since I put it in.
I just realized I don't have any pics of the install. I'll try to get some up for you this weekend.

[dec322]

I bought it from Autozone. It's basically a probe that goes in between the radiator fins and can be adjusted to turn on the fans at just about any temp. IIRC, it was only $17 and has been working perfect since I put it in.
I just realized I don't have any pics of the install. I'll try to get some up for you this weekend.

Thanks man.

I'm not real big into the whole electronic type stuff but I can follow directions with the best of them. I'm liking the idea of putting my own setup together because of cost. How did you program the PCM?

[JKmotorsports]

Don't have to program the pcm. The aftermarket thermostat controls the fans. Another option is programming the pcm to turn on the fan control and use that instead of the aftermarket thermostat.

[Max]

I'm just gonna buy some new oem 05+
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/05-06-TAHOE-YUKON-SUBURBAN-ESCALADE-OEM-ELECTRIC-FANS_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trkparmsZ72Q3a2067Q7c66Q3a 2Q7c65Q3a12Q7c39Q3a1Q7c240Q3a1318Q7c301Q3a0Q7c293Q 3a1Q7c294Q3a50QQ_trksidZp3286Q2ec0Q2em14QQhashZite m20abc90c10QQitemZ140321033232QQptZMotorsQ5fCarQ5f TruckQ5fPartsQ5fAccessories

[dec322]

Don't have to program the pcm. The aftermarket thermostat controls the fans. Another option is programming the pcm to turn on the fan control and use that instead of the aftermarket thermostat.


Ok. That makes sense. How long have you been running your setup? How accurate is the aftermarket thermostat?

I'm a little worried that the thermostat might give out and the fans won't come on...then I overheat and then I blow a head gasket. My wife drives the yukon and she will never check gauges to make sure everything is functioning.

Did you notice an increase in MPG?

[jmildoc]

that is what I am wanting too dec322 an increase in mileage would be great

[dec322]

that is what I am wanting too dec322 an increase in mileage would be great

What kind of mileage do you get with your lift? We just ran through our first tank with the yukon and averaged 13.5 mpg (90% city). The tires were inflated to 28 psi. Yesterday I increased to 35 psi and will see if we get any increase. Next week I will change the fuel filter and check. Lastly, I will change the plugs and check. I want around 15-16 in the city.

Everything else done to the truck will be for MPG (exhaust, fan, filter.....BB Tune :)...maybe not)

[jmildoc]

well i never noticed a difference with the 2 inch lift. I do have the 6.0 and its a 2500 so it is hard to compare. but I will tell you when I changed over to full synthetic gear oil in the rear end. I gained 1.4 mpg!!!!! I also run 50psi in the front tires and 55 in the back. I am going to change the front diff fluid but havent gotten around to it yet

[Rivieraracing]

I'm looking for electric fans that when "all said and done installed" look like factory but would like to see any successful install pics as well!!

[dec322]

I'm looking for electric fans that when "all said and done installed" look like factory but would like to see any successful install pics as well!!

I was just searching on Tahoeforum (I refuse to post there) and found JK's project list and a few install pics. I also found a link to a pretty good writeup with pics (http://www.beasonfamily.com/eFan.htm).

I'm still comparing it to what JK did and will decide on how I want to proceed. For instance, I like the adjustable thermostat idea better than buying the controller....at least right now.

I also saw something about a S&B Intake. Where do you buy one?

[JKmotorsports]

Ok. That makes sense. How long have you been running your setup? How accurate is the aftermarket thermostat?

I'm a little worried that the thermostat might give out and the fans won't come on...then I overheat and then I blow a head gasket. My wife drives the yukon and she will never check gauges to make sure everything is functioning.

Did you notice an increase in MPG?

I've been running it for a couple years now I guess. No problems. There really isn't much to the thermostat in terms of wearing out and becoming inoperative, so I doubt it would fail any sooner than the factory CTS (coolant temp sensor).
The thermostat has a knob that you can set to whatever temp you want. I set mine to come on around 180* and it does it everytime.
I gained roughly about 1-1.5 mpg over a couple tanks, better throttle response, and slightly cooler AC.
In the write-up link you posted above, it looks like Beason used the same thermostat I have.

[JKmotorsports]

I also saw something about a S&B Intake. Where do you buy one?

I don't remember for sure, but I think I bought mine from either Jeg's or Summit Racing. I like the S&B because it's sealed from the hot underhood temps and they provide a dyno chart on their website with actual gains. I also believe they make the filters for K&N.

[JennaBear]

I never believe dyno charts that manufacturers post! Most of them wind up screwing with the baseline numbers anyways. They all use DynoJets too since they show 20% higher numbers.

[Volant1]

Jenna is 100% right, We say 20hp two guys garage says 23 on a mustang dyno here is a link http://www.volant.com/commviewer.asp in house I use a superflow, granitelli uses a 4 wheel drive mustang, Wide open throttle uses a mustang, Van gordon uses a superflow, Dyno Jet has a 10% power curve which the autodyne 90 software can factor in for the customers that use more than one dyno shop, Fact is Jenna, Baseline is Baseline and max is max if you use the same dyno for baseline and max both runs will show the same hp gain no matter what brand you use. Careful with your words if you want to throw everyone under the bus

[Justin]

Jenna is 100% right, We say 20hp two guys garage says 23 on a mustang dyno here is a link http://www.volant.com/commviewer.asp in house I use a superflow, granitelli uses a 4 wheel drive mustang, Wide open throttle uses a mustang, Van gordon uses a superflow, Dyno Jet has a 10% power curve which the autodyne 90 software can factor in for the customers that use more than one dyno shop, Fact is Jenna, Baseline is Baseline and max is max if you use the same dyno for baseline and max both runs will show the same hp gain no matter what brand you use. Careful with your words if you want to throw everyone under the bus

Not quite true. Brand for brand should show similar PERCENTAGE gains, not HP gains, however there are many ways to "trick" the numbers. One trick I stumbled on showed a manufacturer starting the stock inertia pull at 3500rpm, which had the truck in closed loop for the first second or so, yielding low numbers til over 5000rpm. In the pull with their intake installed, the run was started at around 2000rpm, but recording was not started til 3500rpm, allowing the entire run to be made in PE mode, with increased ignition timing and appropriate fueling. This, naturally, will yield better gains. On an 07+ Vortec Max truck, this would show a 35 ft-lb difference aside from any intake gains.

DJ inflation factor is not 10%, it's much closer to 20%: http://www.factorypro.com/magazine/dynojet_dyno_inflated_hp_reason.html

[Volant1]

I am well aware that there are many ways to bump the numbers on a dyno, my comment was not regarding that you cannot change the numbers by altering the test. It was stated that everyone uses a dyno jet and plays with the numbers. If I were a customer that had no idea how this indrustry works and I were to read a post like black bears if would make me think twice about ordering aftermarket parts for my truck. K&N is one of the biggest companys around they use a dynojet but there numbers are dynojet stock and dynojet after but the software should factor in the % difference for wrhp. My dyno can pull up Superflow, mustang, and dynojet numbers. Intakes make little power tell 3200 rpm on up so most test start at 3000 so unless you have an exhaust there is little need to run the test from 700 to 6000 theres to must data to go through.

[Justin]

I am well aware that there are many ways to bump the numbers on a dyno, my comment was not regarding that you cannot change the numbers by altering the test. It was stated that everyone uses a dyno jet and plays with the numbers. If I were a customer that had no idea how this indrustry works and I were to read a post like black bears if would make me think twice about ordering aftermarket parts for my truck. K&N is one of the biggest companys around they use a dynojet but there numbers are dynojet stock and dynojet after but the software should factor in the % difference for wrhp. My dyno can pull up Superflow, mustang, and dynojet numbers. Intakes make little power tell 3200 rpm on up so most test start at 3000 so unless you have an exhaust there is little need to run the test from 700 to 6000 theres to must data to go through.

The word "All" wasn't the perfect word, but the vast majority do use dynojets. And any dyno that "corrects" to a DJ is just adding in the DJ inflation factor.

I have yet to see any manufacturer claim their gains in real % other than the outrageous marketing claims like "up to 20% more power", et al. When a parts manufacturer uses a DJ dyno for a baseline and max power, then that difference is also inflated by near 20%, it's simple math.

We are not at all bad mouthing any of these manufacturers, as we have run independent back to back tests on a number of systems on the same dyno on the same day (Volant was included in that test). ALL performed quite a better than the stock box and tube. None lived up to any manufacturers claims, but that is to be expected.

[JennaBear]

I never said I don't buy any of the products, I just said I don't go by the dyno charts. I have plenty of aftermarket parts on my vehicles, and will always tell customers that intakes/exhausts are all personal preference, as they all essentially do the same thing with slight variances.

[Volant1]

huh this is getting to be way off topic so instead of beating a dead horse in going to leave it be. When you tested kit after kit im sure the vehicle had some drive time in between swaps I would love to see the data and which kits were tested Daniel@volant.com

[BOSS]

The word "All" wasn't the perfect word, but the vast majority do use dynojets. And any dyno that "corrects" to a DJ is just adding in the DJ inflation factor.

I have yet to see any manufacturer claim their gains in real % other than the outrageous marketing claims like "up to 20% more power", et al. When a parts manufacturer uses a DJ dyno for a baseline and max power, then that difference is also inflated by near 20%, it's simple math.

We are not at all bad mouthing any of these manufacturers, as we have run independent back to back tests on a number of systems on the same dyno on the same day (Volant was included in that test). ALL performed quite a better than the stock box and tube. None lived up to any manufacturers claims, but that is to be expected.

Bottom line - manufacturers are going to blow up their claims on any product, automotive or otherwise. It's how they SELL PRODUCTS. Doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that out guys.

Thanks for the chime in Justin - look forward to meeting ya in SanAntone!


BOSS

[Volant1]

I'm looking for electric fans that when "all said and done installed" look like factory but would like to see any successful install pics as well!!

This is the installed purma cool fan pack

[JennaBear]

I have the 05 Tahoe fans, easiest to install since they are OEM. They are plug and play with the PCM (PINS 42 and 33) so you don't have to mess with tapping into the radiator.

http://www.blackbearperformance.com/images/tahoe_fans.jpg

http://www.blackbearperformance.com/images/tahoe_fans2.jpg

[blueflamed03]

nice pencil sharpener on top of the engine Jenna :D

[JennaBear]

She comes in handy from time to time :imo:

[dec322]

Don't you need a larger radiator for the 05-06 fans?

[JennaBear]

If you have the Z71 or towing package then you have the larger radiator.

EDIT: if you have the narrow radiator, go with the LS1 fans, they are OEM as well.

[road1will]

huh this is getting to be way off topic so instead of beating a dead horse in going to leave it be. When you tested kit after kit im sure the vehicle had some drive time in between swaps I would love to see the data and which kits were tested Daniel@volant.com

Do you work for Volant?

[dec322]

If you have the Z71 or towing package then you have the larger radiator.

Towing package? I know I don't have the z71. How do I check on a towing package?

I have the gear towing stuff on the truck but I'm not sure how to check if it is factory or if it was an add-on.

[road1will]

I have the 05 Efans...oh wait...it is an 05 :)

[JennaBear]

Towing package? I know I don't have the z71. How do I check on a towing package?

I have the gear towing stuff on the truck but I'm not sure how to check if it is factory or if it was an add-on.

If the radiator bolts on the support are 38" apart, then you have the larger radiator.

[dec322]

If the radiator bolts on the support are 38" apart, then you have the larger radiator.

Thanks, I'll check in the morning.

[Volant1]

Do you work for Volant?

Yes I am the tech, R&D and Dyno guy for Volant

[dec322]

I checked my radiator and found that I do have the larger one.

I guess I could buy the 05 fans from ebay (250ish) and hook them up. Won't I still need a tuner to program the truck to use the efans?

[JennaBear]

Yes, you will need a harness and someone to turn your fan PINs on. This is the optimal way, as your PCM will tell your fans to be on high or low as well as one on or one off. They will be able to monitor your system point blank better than the radiator tapping method.

[BOSS]

So after reading all this and other threads, I've read there are some HP gains from this.

What are the estimated HP gains?


BOSS

[JennaBear]

Hard to say with all the different set ups. Depend on coolant temps, avg speed driven, ambient temp. etc.

[dec322]

So after reading all this and other threads, I've read there are some HP gains from this.

What are the estimated HP gains?


BOSS

If it is anything less than 25 rwhp then I'm out.

Really, I don't think it would be huge but I want 2-3 more mpg.

[Alex29573]

i have the small radiator but have the 05 fans on order...

im guessing the 05 fans are too big/wide for me? can they be modified?

or is it better to get the smaller ls1/lt1 fans? (which are cheaper)

[JennaBear]

It is not possible to modify without installing a new radiator. You will be better off selling those fans (probably get what you paid for if not more) and buy the LS1 fans.

[dec322]

Honestly, I think I will take the same route as JK. Although I like the idea of OE fans and pcm controlled, I don't like the idea of paying $250 for fans and $200 for pcm work (I don't really know how much it cost).

If I can spend $200 on fans, electrical stuff, and thermostat and accomplish the same goal (better gas mileage) then I will be happy.