Fan Problems
There are several good articles about problems with the fan but here are some observations. The original 2-blade fan was electric welded sheet steel and sometimes the stress near the hub causes small cracks to form. It is a good idea to inspect the fan blade about two or three times during the driving season to ensure that it is good condition.
Cast aluminum fans are now being supplied. These are good but still need to be inspected after assembly to ensure they are tight on the shaft or do not have cracks in the casting. One of these was recently installed and it broke in two when tightened, some fracture marks were seen in the break. This is generally rare. On tour, one driver had a loose fan experience during the Golden Lake trip. It is suspected that the tapers of the fan and the shaft may have been slightly different, so it is important to check the nut tightness of newly installed fans after they have been used for a while.
We have seen a problem with broken after market flat bladed fan, after the cast white-metal after market hub became lose and destroyed the key groove. Another case was experienced when a white-metal fan hub broke due to the thin casting. So, regardless of the type of fan you have, check it periodically.
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