Engine Electric Fan Swap Questions

James.Little

James.Little

Member
Jan 6, 2013
135
4
19
Lubbock, Texas
#1
I have a 89 5.0L 5-Speed and I want to add an electric fan. I already have a 160Amp 3g Alternator. I was wondering on recommendations for how large of a fan I should look for? Also I think I want a adjustable thermostat relay, is that a good idea? If not, what temperature should I get (relay)? Do you guys have any recommendations on fans in general? Should I get two small ones or one large one? What else should I know?

Thanks!
 

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#4
Taurus/Contour/Mark VII are all popular swaps. You can even work it to fit inside your stock shroud.

Many recommend using a variable speed controller, like the Flex-a-lite 31165. This decreases the in-rush amp draw that some of these high speed/high CFM fans can pull on startup.

I picked up a fan from a 2002 Mercury Villager and it fit perfectly inside a stock shroud. I'll be using the above mentioned Flex-a-lite variable speed controller as well.
 
#5
You might want to note where you live (what ambient temps the car is driven in) and what mods the car has. That can change the recommendations.

Good luck.
 
#6
I like the derale twin fans, 4000 cfm. we can run on a 95 degree day and keep the car 165* only draw back is it pulls almost 50 amps but it sounds like you have a big enough alternator.
 
#12
I went with the ProForm from LMR. The fan has been great so far, and I know of a friend who runs this on a 347 with no issues. Been good for him for over a year now. Cheaper kit, keeps the engine where its suppose to be, and comes with everything you need. Pretty simple install too. Wiring can be a bit confusing, but a little research anything can be done, even if you have little knowledge of how to do it.
 
#14
You can't go wrong with either a MkVII or contour fans. I think they both pull well over 3000cfm. I've had a MKVII on my supercharged 87 and it worked great. IMO, don't bother with the lower model black magic fan. It won't keep a stocker cool.

For a controller, you want one that ramps up so it doesn't put so much of a load on the electrical system. I used to use one about 10 years ago from a guy that is no longer in business. The two best on the market today imo are either the DCC unit of the flex a light vsc. ( can't remember the pn right now) They are both about $100. Keep in mind if you want the DCC unit, be prepared to wait several weeks.

I found a contour fan from a 90's car - think 3.0 motor?- at the upull for like $20 and will but the FAL VSC to hook it up.
 
#16
You are going to want something that pulls a real 2500+ CFM. That's why we recommend the tried and true fans. The OEM stuff is very hard to beat, as it's made to function for 70K+ miles (through a warranty period).

Since you're talking about the Taurus fan, for clarity, the ones generally referenced are from the 3.8L engines.
 
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