Well, we replaced the radiator in our '81 RX-7 today, and want to add an electric fan. My question is, do we have to keep the clutch on the front? I am assuming it has something to do with balancing, but if not please let me know. Thanks!

Michael Casavant
n1xrr-mm@home.com

 

No, you don't need to keep it. Just toss it and get you a good electric fan. I use twin 10"s from Summit on mine. They push 900 cfm apiece. Keeps it cool.

 

Careful fitting fans, because since your 81 has an air-to-air oil cooler mounted underneath, your rad is smaller than the later model rx-7s with 3 row rads. Thus, a 16 inch electric fan will have to overlap both the rad and oil cooler.

The Flex-a-Lite Black Magic fan is a very good choice, albeit quite pricey. It puts out 3000 cfm and is usually the preferred choice in most discussions. I have one and like it very much.

Why are you replacing your stock fan though? Unless your clutch is dead, I really wouldn't bother. It makes a minor difference in 1st/2nd gears, but for the money and hassle there are more effective mods available. As well, no electric fan will really provide the same level of consistent cooling as the stock setup.

You should do a search of the previous posts on this board, there have been numerous discussions of this topic.