Do I need a viscous fan?

110 csw with 200tdi motor currently with viscous fan and an electric fan fitted behind the radiator. But the electric fan hardly ever comes on (yes it works via a rheostat) and the motor never seems to get that hot.

Do I need the viscous fan? I might get a bit more mpg without it and rely on the electric one.

Do I need the electric one?

Nope, not unless you're in 30*C+ climates regularly. Even then your electric one would probably be adequate, assuming your radiator etc are in good condition.

By removing it you'll also increase fuel efficiency by a small amount and free up the engine a bit too. Haven't had one on mine since I put the Tdi in and I've never had to use the electric fan to cool it down so far.

Do you need a special tool to take them off?

Does your fan use a rheostat or do you have a manual switch?

I used a big pair of grips and a screwdriver to wedge the pulley if I remember correctly. And yes mine is manually controlled on a switch. The temperature gauge has never once moved from it's usual position -- idling in high ambient temp, long motorway climbs etc.
My radiator is brand new though.

i have know many with no fan, though one guy did regret it after towing a trailer in traffic

Thanks, I'll whip it off and see if it makes any odds.

I'll have a look tomorrow if the rain goes away!

and incase you don't know, the viscous fan has a left-hand thread. (unscrews clockwise)

Rehgar said:

and incase you don't know, the viscous fan has a left-hand thread. (unscrews clockwise)

Click to expand...

youve spoiled his next qs now:doh:

"been trying all day and i cant get the viscous fan off what am i doing wrong"