So, I noticed that my fan clutch is engaged almost ALL the time.. well, sorta. I started the truck this morning (18*F), and the fan was roaring.. I don't know why, or if it's normal, but it was almost as if it were in full lockup. This isn't the first time, and it doesn't seem to be temperature-dependent. Is this normal?

On cold mornings the oil inside the fan clutch is super thick and tends to act like the fan is locked but after a short distance of getting a bit of R's behind the fan clutch it will unlock. Totally normal and I even see the same thing so the first range of gears I normally hear the fan drop out and unlock.But you'll have this...

ahh. you know, I thought I remembered seeing a video on this awhile back, right after I posted the thread. Thanks for the reminder!

I would be scarred to put something in front of my fan because I think it runs all the time too. How loose is your when the truck is off?

I would be scarred to put something in front of my fan because I think it runs all the time too. How loose is your when the truck is off?

mine is no where as loose as mikes.but when it engages it is very obvious. but just 98 i aint sticking anything in there. cluck cluck says the ckicken.

That's why the truck is idling and the rubber hose is used. The hose is not going to hurt the blades but its enough to stop the fan from turning so you can check and see if the fan clutch is actually unlocking. If the fan is stuck locked it will not slow down and you'll know its time. I've found 1 fan clutch on a 92 Dodge this way and it was lock solid.