By Tom Morr
Auxiliary fans are a relatively easy and affordable way to improve cooling performance. They keep the cool air flowing across the radiator’s fins, which can be particularly beneficial in stop-and-go conditions.
The Moss catalog lists the recommended fan sizes for various British sportscars; our guinea-pig TR6 here takes a 14-inch kit (231-658). These fans can be wired either as pushers (mounted in front of the radiator) or pullers (behind the radiator). At least one inch of clearance between the fan and other components is required. On some cars, the radiator might need to be removed to mount the fan to it. The kit comes with a thermostat control that’s preset for 185 degrees. Optional upgrades include an adjustable control and dash-mounted override switch.
Installation is straightforward, even for people who are afraid of wiring. (Always begin by disconnecting the battery.) Required tools include screwdrivers, pliers/dykes, and a crimper/ stripper. Estimated installation time is one to two hours. The end result is cheap insurance against overheating.
- Hayden Thin-Line Fan kits from Moss include the fan/motor assembly, mounting hardware, thermostat control, and wiring harness.
- Install the fan on either the front or rear of the radiator as clearance allows. Front mounting was the only way on this TR6, so this job begins by removing the fiberboard shroud.
- Assemble the mounting rods with the springs and foam pads.
- Check clearances, then mount the fan in the desired location on the radiator or AC condenser. Carefully push the four mounting-rod assemblies through the fan’s brackets and cooling fins, securing with a locking button on the other side.
- Locate the temperature-control rod the specified distance below the water neck and carefully insert it through the fins. Remove the rod, snap off excess length, screw on the snap switch, reinsert the rod, and secure with the foam pad and locking clip.
- Wire per the instructions. Power and ground wires at the fan depend on whether it’s mounted as a pusher or puller.
- Power leads go to battery (or constant hot) and key ON hot. Using a test light, both of these circuits were located at the TR6’s fuse box, and connections were made by crimping spade connectors onto the fan harness’s wires.
- The relay and fuse (not visible) are securely mounted, both ground wires are double-checked for secure contact, wires are secured with nylon ties, and the fan is tested.
'Adding an Electric Fan' have 2 comments
January 24, 2023 @ 11:20 am Dave Paully
You could have made the pictures come up full size or at least half size instead of thumbs. Then if you double click they become even smaller??
February 2, 2023 @ 10:07 am Chloe Gabriana
Hi Dave,
As much as we do wish that we could fix the sizing issues with the photos in the article we are unable to because we no longer have access to the original photos from 2003.