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Radiator fan


JOE58
02-04-2006, 08:33 AM
2nd engine has 100,000 miles. Radiator fan is 'on' right from the start of the cold engine. How to check temp. sensors and which one controls the fan?

Thanks,

wiswind
02-04-2006, 09:41 AM
What year is your windstar?...they did move things around a little over the years.
The fans should be ON when the A/C is on....which now-a-days includes heat and defrost settings.
Try setting the heater control to "Vent" or OFF and see if that makes the fans turn OFF.

The fans are supposed to be ON when the engine temperature is over about 210 degrees.
They are also supposed to be ON whenever the A/C is on and the vehicle is under about 43MPH
Also, whenever the A/C compressor clutch is engaged.

The fans will run at high speed if the engine gets over 230 degrees.

The engine Temperature for the COMPUTER (PCM) is sensed by the temperature sensor that is on the driver's side of the car.....right by where the heater hose comes out.
The sensor that is right over the thermostat is the one for the dash board gauge.
Not sure if this link will work.....http://community.webshots.com/photo/201931518/1350061116011220610mdFuiN

If the link does not work.....it is the picture on page #3 of my pictures, titled "coolant temp. sensors viewed with throttle body removed"
Link to the pictures page http://community.webshots.com/album/201931518cScpNK

The signal from the temperature sensor goes to the PCM and is used for many things, including fan control. The PCM sends a signal to the Constant Control Relay Module) CCRM (also in my pictures), which contains the relays for the fans.
THIS is where your year is important. I have a '96, which has the CCRM, which contains relays for the fuel pump, fan high and low speed, and A/C compressor cut-off (Wide Open Throttle) relay.
At some point, newer models moved these relays into the power distribution box, in the engine compartment.

Detailed pictures of the CCRM are also in my pictures, but again, this will be different in some newer windstars.

JOE58
02-04-2006, 10:54 AM
The year of my Windstar is 1995. I will check if AC was set to ON and let you know.

thanks,

Joe

JOE58
02-07-2006, 08:14 AM
Check engine light was caused by cooling temp. sensor. (codePO118)
I chnged it and fan is running OK.
Joe

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