Oil Cooler Fan
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 2,246
Likes: 19
From: Cypress, TX
Oil Cooler Fan
This seems like a great idea. I am about to put a HD preimum cooler on my '09 SG. I'd like to hear from people that have used this fan set up with that cooler.
1. How has it held up?
2. How does it look?
3. How was the install?
Thanks!
http://bigskyfan.tripod.com/
1. How has it held up?
2. How does it look?
3. How was the install?
Thanks!
http://bigskyfan.tripod.com/
Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 1,349
Likes: 25
From: VALE NC
i have one going on my bike this week i would have been able to take pics if the dealer got it back to me on time should have it back by Tuesday i will take some pics
the unit look to be of good quality should be good
thanks Gabe
the unit look to be of good quality should be good
thanks Gabe
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 2,183
Likes: 1
From: Lenexa, KS (KC)
If the fans are not running will they actually impede air flow through the cooler? I know they should free wheel somewhat, but what if one fan fails and freezes up? Maybe they should run all the time. Are we adding more than is needed to keep the system reliable?
Tourer
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 393
Likes: 1
From: East Coast
I had an oil cooler on my 2006 Ultra Classic , had 21,000 miles on it with no problems at all , the fans that I had mounted on the inside of the oil cooler. Used tie straps went through the oil fins and then used another tie strap and then cut off the tail after making sure they were tight. I also used mine with a manual switch. On the inside thay are out of the air and only work when turned on.
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Cruiser
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 139
Likes: 2
From: Northern Virginia
I just received a prompt reply from the vendor answering some of my questions. The fans each measure 2.25" square by 1" deep. Two fans should just fit behind the stock oil cooler on my '09 FLHTP. They "appear" to be secured by small zip ties. I confirmed this type mounting is feasible by slipping zip ties through my own oil cooler. The installation appears simple ... three nuts to drop the cooler, zip tie the fans, run the wiring. I'm also concerned that the fans (in the off position) will impede air flow. It does not matter that the fans are in front of, or behind the cooler - the interference to the aerodynamic flow is approx the same. The vendor did not appear to understand my concern, as he too said "no, they are mounted behind". I think we will experience some flow impediment - maybe 30%? - but I think the low speed airflow gain outweighs the high speed loss. I just placed my order. He also gives Forum members a discount. Use this site to order for the discount ... http://bigskyfan.tripod.com/id3.html
I'll give a full report after I install and test them.
I'll give a full report after I install and test them.
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Cruiser
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 123
Likes: 0
From: NW PA
I have a set of 3 small fans behind my HD oil cooler, not the ones you are looking at.... I see no reason why there should be a concern with air flow being impeded at highway speed.... The fans should help when sitting at the stop light in traffic if you remember to turn them on. I hooked mine up to my accessory switch on my Ultra. Even with the cooler my scoot runs at 230 degrees oil temp. I have the Roger McEwan temp guage I installed in place of the air guage... I am running a 103 big bore on my 07 Ultra and everything is fine... Rode through 2 days of 6 hour rains last Sun and Mon and fans still work fine... The heat comes off the heads, in particular the rear that is between your coconuts. Even with the TMAT I run and oil cooler the bike is a toaster oven on wheels. AFR reading is 13.7-1 up to 3000 rpm then goes to 13.2-1.... What you gonna do... Its an air cooled motor......
Skunk237
Sr. Ride Captain PGR
Army
103 big bore
HD cooler
bagger brace
chrome,chrome, chrome
God Bless our Troops!!!!!!!!!
Skunk237
Sr. Ride Captain PGR
Army
103 big bore
HD cooler
bagger brace
chrome,chrome, chrome
God Bless our Troops!!!!!!!!!
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 866
Likes: 1
From: FT BRAGG, NC
Fans of this nature normally free wheel on their bearings when not having power. So...Airflow restriction should be nominal at best and probably not as high as 30%. But it's not the high speed cooling we really should be worried about. It's the low speed and standing we do at lights and in traffic...this is where the fan unit gives you the most bang for the buck!
I'm not sure though that an Aux switch is the way to go. But I understand why you would go that route...for simplicity and not wanting to have another reason for something to go wrong with the more complicated auto set-up. I just feel that an AUX switch could be forgotten to be turned on and then your back to a very expensive oil cooling device that isn't used. We all get distracted. But hey...at time...Simple is best!
I'm looking into this system for a summer MOD. Thanks for all you input...makes My mind up for sure. The fans and the addition of an oil temp gauge are now at the top of My list!
Ride Safe, Mike
I'm not sure though that an Aux switch is the way to go. But I understand why you would go that route...for simplicity and not wanting to have another reason for something to go wrong with the more complicated auto set-up. I just feel that an AUX switch could be forgotten to be turned on and then your back to a very expensive oil cooling device that isn't used. We all get distracted. But hey...at time...Simple is best!
I'm looking into this system for a summer MOD. Thanks for all you input...makes My mind up for sure. The fans and the addition of an oil temp gauge are now at the top of My list!
Ride Safe, Mike