Safety Precautions:
Before you begin working, ensure that the engine is cool and the vehicle is parked on a level surface. Engage the parking brake and disconnect the battery's negative terminal to prevent any electrical hazards.
Tools Needed:
- Combination wrench set (metric)
- 32mm (or 1-1/4 inch) open-end wrench
- Impact wrench (optional)
Steps to Remove the Fan Clutch:
1. Locate the Fan Clutch: Open the hood of your Suburban and find the fan clutch. It is located at the front of the engine, attached to the water pump.
2. Disconnect the Electrical Connector: Depending on your specific model, there might be an electrical connector attached to the fan clutch. If there is, disconnect it by gently prying the connector apart with a small flat-head screwdriver.
3. Loosen the Fan Clutch Bolts: Use the 32mm (or 1-1/4 inch) open-end wrench to loosen the bolts that hold the fan clutch in place. These bolts are typically located around the outer perimeter of the fan clutch.
4. Use an Impact Wrench (Optional): If you have easy access to an impact wrench, you can use it to speed up the process of removing the bolts.
5. Remove the Fan Clutch: Once all the bolts are loosened, grasp the fan clutch and gently pull it straight out from the water pump. It may require a bit of force to overcome the resistance from the fan clutch's bearings.
6. Inspect and Replace the Fan Clutch: Inspect the old fan clutch for any signs of damage or wear. If necessary, replace it with a new fan clutch.
7. Reinstall the Fan Clutch: When reinstalling the fan clutch, first align it properly with the water pump. Then, hand-tighten the bolts until they are snug.
8. Tighten the Bolts: Tighten the fan clutch bolts in a star pattern, alternating between bolts to ensure even pressure distribution. Use the 32mm (or 1-1/4 inch) open-end wrench to tighten them securely.
9. Reconnect the Electrical Connector (if applicable): If you disconnected an electrical connector in Step 2, reconnect it now.
10. Reconnect the Battery: Reconnect the battery's negative terminal to restore electrical power to the vehicle.
11. Test the Fan Clutch: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Observe the fan clutch to ensure that it is operating smoothly and engaging properly.
By following these steps, you can safely remove and replace the fan clutch on your 1999 Chevy Suburban.
