Thoughts and opinions on Kenlowe fans....

[MrGorsky]

I run a V8 on LPG. I don't (yet) have a cooling problem, but with regard to keeping my V8 cooling system in top working order, I was having a look at electric fan kits.

Kenlowe claim removing the viscous fan and fitting an electric set will improve fuel economy because it only runs when it has to, not all the time like the standard item. I realise it doesn't turn with much force whilst cold, but anyway.

Also they claim they are more efficient having more blades, they move more air etc etc.

I did a search and most people on the other LZ boards seem to think they are a waste of time. They also drive Land Rovers that get their feet wet and so an electric fan strapped to the front of your car might not be a good idea for them!

Does anyone have any experience with using electric fans over the standard item? Are they worth it? Are Kenlowe indulging in sales BS! I'm not about to buy, just interested.

 

[wammers]

No they are not bull****ting. Most modern cars a fitted with electric fans. Removing the viscous fan will reduce engine load and you may see a slight improvement in fuel usage.

 

[stopover]

What are they quoting you?

 

[Datatek]

Kenlowe no longer have a good reputation for reliability, there are better ones around.
Electric ran is better for wading as it doesn't spray water all over the engine if it's not running.

 

[StuckAgainSteve]

Mechanical fans can actually be a pain when wading as they splash water all over the engine bay and they snap blades rather than a fuse if the going get too tough. On the other hand a mechanical fan is spun up as soon as the engine revs which is good off road as you don't have to wait for the fans to respond to the extra heat dumped into the cooling system before the additional cooling comes in.

I think Datatek's use of the AC fans but at a lower temp as additional cooling fans makes most sense.

 

[MrGorsky]

What are they quoting you?

Haven't really got that far yet. Was just thinking if I ever needed to replace the viscous unit, that would be the time to change over to electric.

Thanks for the input though. How do you do your mod Datatek? I suspect my air-con fans never get used!

 

[wammers]

Kenlowe no longer have a good reputation for reliability, there are better ones around.
Electric ran is better for wading as it doesn't spray water all over the engine if it's not running.

Yes will go with that Keith, they do seem to have gone down hill a little in street cred. Wonder if it's got anything to do with thermostats and fans being made in Wonchongxzin provence?

 

[StuckAgainSteve]

I just don't understand niche market companies like Kenlowe moving manufacturing to China, Kenlowe fans were bought by car enthusiasts, classic car owners etc, the sort of people who are happy to pay extra for good quality. As soon as you start selling cheap tat to a discerning audience you are finished.

 

[Grit Valve]

I find it very unlikely that you go of roading in your v 8 I like the reliability of a fan that was made to run all the time if it plays up then your gauge will let you know , rather than relying on a fan that should come on when needed that doesn't and its to late that's my opinion

 

[MrGorsky]

I find it very unlikely that you go off roading in your v 8

Hang on a minute, just last week I drove across a grassy field, and then up a muddy track to the A413.

I like to test my P38 to it's limit!

 

[Datatek]

Haven't really got that far yet. Was just thinking if I ever needed to replace the viscous unit, that would be the time to change over to electric.

Thanks for the input though. How do you do your mod Datatek? I suspect my air-con fans never get used!

PM me with an email address and I'll send you the mod. It's only good as a back up to the viscous on the V8 but the same stat can be used via a relay to drive an additional fan to replace the viscous.