Removal and installation the fan and fan clutch (BMW 3 Series E30)

The fan clutch must be replaced if the hub is broken. In this case, the fan does not turn or turns with difficulty when the engine is off. The clutch must also be replaced if there is axial or radial play or if there is increased oil consumption.

Removal

Disconnect the ground wire from the battery.

Loosen the fan shroud fastener. Models 316i from September 1988 and 318i from September 1987: Release the fan shroud from the clips (see section "Removal and installation the timing belt").



Unscrew the fan from the water pump hub.

Note: The nut has a left-hand thread and should be turned to the right when unscrewing.

When unscrewing the nut, press on the V-belt of the water pump to keep the hub from turning. If the nut cannot be unscrewed, hit the handle of the wrench with a hammer while it is placed on the nut.



Remove the fan.



If you need to separate the viscous coupling from the fan, unscrew the 4 bolts securing the "arrow" and remove the coupling.

Installation

Insert the viscous coupling into the fan and tighten the mounting bolts with a tightening torque of 9 Nm.

Caution: To avoid damaging the threads and coupling, do not overtighten the mounting bolts.

Screw the fan with the coupling to the water pump hub with a tightening torque of 25 Nm. At the same time, hold the hub from turning with a V-belt.

Install the fan shroud and secure with bolts or clamps.

Connect the ground wire to the battery.

The text is based on materials from the website «BMWman»