M42 electric fan conversion options

[M42 Technik]

My M42 is still using a factory belt driven clutch fan. This design robs power from the engine. But my major concern is that the bearing inside the clutch fan is getting loose and the fan is noisey as hell. It still isn't wobbling yet.

Anyways, I'm going to swap an electric fan from a newer M44 motor. The advantages are many. Free's up some power, no more replacing worn belts, can be shut off if needed (depending on install option).

Here are my install options..

1) Wire it to a switch in the interior so I can control when I want to turn the fan on or off. (problem is, if you forget to turn the fan off when you shut the car off, battery will drain, if you forget to turn it on when the car is started, car will overheat)

2) Use a full universal wiring kit which includes the sensors for the thermostat. Only turns on when the sensor senses the engine needs it. (I'd be paranoid about this one)

3) Hook it up to the ignition so the fan is on only when the motor is running (this is my preferred option. However, no idea how to wire it this way)

Which design is the M44 using, does the M44 already have some sort of temp sensor?

Suggestions and wiring help/hints would be apprecaited.

Thanks,

Bry

[Theodore]

Option #2 seems like the smartest, safest and best option. That is the way electric fans on engines work best. Option 3 would prevent the engine from warming up very quickly, and would run cool most of the time. Option #1 should work ok, but as you mentioned, you'd have to remember it and also how would you know when to turn it on? Just my thoughts. Hope they help.

Ted

[Clbsprt ti]

My m42 used an electric fan. It was wired into a temp sensor and only came on when the engine needed it. I'm pretty sure it was part of the body wiring harness. I still have the fan...pm me with an offer if you want it.

-Robb

[M42 Technik]

I'm interested in the Fan. I'll PM you an offer.

Thanks for the advice guys, I'm just going to use the #2 option as you guys suggested (just like stock).

Is there already a temp sensor on the stock radiator?

Thanks,

Bryan

[ae86e36]

Any info on what year make and model I can search for the fan? I have a 92 318is (M42) definately want to go the e fan route. Any info, pix, part numbers will help!
Cheers!

[chevale]

Just FYI my '95 318TI has factory installed electric fan. You guys can look for one to retrofit.

[slocar]

M44 fan and temp switch. Take out the aux pusher as m44 didnt have it either.


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[MtekJosh]

Just FYI my '95 318TI has factory installed electric fan. You guys can look for one to retrofit.

I have one of these sitting here. Anybody have any idea what kind of cfm they pull?

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