How to Remove a Clutch Fan on a 1986 Jeep Cherokee

The 1986 Jeep Cherokee was available with a 2.1-liter inline-four cylinder turbo diesel, 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder, or a 2.8-liter V-6. The Cherokee was also available with a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission, with two- or four-wheel-drive. The mechanical cooling fan on the Cherokee uses a clutch that allows partial engagement of the fan when the engine is cool, which saves some power. When the fan clutch reaches a certain temperature, it becomes fully engaged. Replacing the fan clutch is a good project for the DIY mechanic.

Instructions

Removal

1

Park the Cherokee on a level surface and set the parking brake. Use a ratchet and socket to remove the negative battery cable.

2

Remove the two bolts that hold the fan shroud onto the radiator support, using the ratchet and socket. Lift the shroud out of the slots in the bottom of the radiator bracket and set the shroud over the fan.

3

Remove the four nuts that hold the fan clutch onto the water pump pulley and flange, using a wrench. Remove the fan from the pulley and flange.

4

Remove the bolts that hold the fan onto the clutch, using a ratchet and socket. Separate the fan from the clutch. Check the fan for bent or damaged blades.

Installation

5

Attach the fan to the new clutch unit. Install the bolts, using a torque wrench to torque them to 20 foot-pounds.

6

Mount the clutch on the water pump flange. Install the bolts and torque them to between 15 and 22 foot-pounds.

7

Slide the fan shroud forward, engaging the bottom of the shroud in the slots in the lower radiator bracket. Install the bolts and use an inch-pound torque wrench to torque the bolts to 36 inch-pounds.

8

Install the negative battery cable.