VW has three different temp ranges for the fan switch.  Bus Depot sells them
all I think.

I have the coldest one and it kicks on the low speed fan when the temp just
creeps over my normal non load driving.  So it is on a lot, but I think the
fan can handle it since it is on 100% of the time when the AC is on.  With
the coldest switch, the high speed fan kicks on high where it used to kick
on low with the stock switch.  The middle temp one is probably good enough.

The gauges don't necessarily all reflect the same temp but 2/3 is as high as
I like to see my gauge go, and now it won't go there ever with the fan
switch I have.  The fan coming on, gives some indication of the what temp
you are running at since you know what temp the coolant in the radiator is
based on the switch rating.  The low speed fan coming on is not a problem
and most vans it will come on while sitting in traffic on a warm day.

I would get or borrow or go down to auto parts store and try an infrared
temp gun and point it at the engine when it is the hottest it normally gets
and see what the gun says.  Most likely it will just give you peace of mind
that it is fine.

>From: Larry Word <larry_word@YAHOO.COM>
>Reply-To: Larry Word <larry_word@YAHOO.COM>
>To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
>Subject: Getting my 1985 Vanagon's front radiator fan to come on sooner
>Date: Tue, 15 May 2007 08:37:50 -0700
>
>My daily driver is acting strange....I usually run straight up between
>low/high
>   on my temp./water level gauge on dash......BUT now....
>
>   My van ran above the water level dot yesterday in traffic and the fan
>only turned on
>   at 3/4 position and then in low speed (3 wire/2 speed switch)....
>
>   Can I install an audi switch to make this fan turn on sooner?  If so,
>what is the
>   part # or year/model, etc.  If not, what the best procedure here?
>
>   *Where do most vanagons run when at operating temp. 50% on gauge range -
>straight up?
>
>   Thanks for all the input - vanagons are great vans and this group is an
>awesome resource!
>
>   Larry
>   Ga.
>
>
>
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