61 Engine fan clutch

[Richard Geiger]

Had overheating problems and now believe the fan clutch is worn out. Bearing is a bit noisy and doesn't seem to have much fluid resistance(fan spins freely when engine is hot- I noted the belt was a bit loose but I think it was the fan that spun). I am in the process of trying to get an original but thought I'd better ask if the fan clutch can be reconditioned? I'm in Perth, Western Australia and everyone I have asked down here has just said they would replace it. I saw one article on the Restorer disk that mentioned bearing clearances. Is repair something a back yard mechanic like myself could carry out?
I could mail it to the states for repair if anyone knows someone who specialises in fan clutch reconditioning.Any tips? Thanks !

[Terry D.]

Re: 61 Engine fan clutch

Richard

Yes the fan clutch can be reconditioned, no it is not a back yard mechanic job. The person you want to contact is Fred Oliva, www.gate.net/~foliva or
954-755-1161. The turn around time is sometimes long so I would suggest buying a replacement from GM to use while yours is being restored. If you don't mind the noise, just a fan blade with no clutch will work.
Terry

[Kent K.]

Re: 61 Engine fan clutch

Agree with Terry about Fred Oliva. He is the best for restoring/rebuilding fan clutches. Allow a long time for completion. In the mean time, purchase a new fan clutch from your local auto parts store for temporary use.

Kent #6201

[Joe L.]

Re: 61 Engine fan clutch

Richard----

A GM #3916141 will have a configuration very similar to your original clutch----not identical but very similar. And, it will be NEW. For DRIVING, I recommend going with a NEW clutch. For show purposes with minimal driving, a restored clutch might be the way to go.

If you purchase an aftermarket clutch, make sure that you get a THERMAL type and not a cheap non-thermal type unit. Aftermarket clutches will be configured very differently from your original, but will usually perform ok.

[Jack H.]

Limited driving???

I've logged 65K miles now on the Fred Oliva rebuilt fan clutch in my '71 and she's still running strong! I'd say that was as as good or better than that clutch's factory new longevity profile...

[Joe L.]

Re: Limited driving???

Jack-----

I'm glad to hear that. However, and taking nothing away from Fred Oliva's fine, high quality work, MY recommendation remains as stated.