So I'm in the process of taking out my fan clutch. I got a 32mm wrench wrapped arounf the fan clutch nut but I can't seem to turn it without spinning the accesory belt. In other words, I can't loosen the nut because I can't get any resistance on it. It just turns the water pump pulley and all the other belts with it. Anybody has a trick for this thing?

nevermind - i figured it out.

Were you changing the fan clutch because your engine sounded like a giant turbine?

My mechanic suggested I do the same and it will stop the engine sounding like it hsa asthma.

From what I understand, the fan clutch seizes and the fan blade spins at the same RPM as the engine, which is not supposed to happen. That is what produces the loud turbine sound.

From what I understand, the fan clutch seizes and the fan blade spins at the same RPM as the engine, which is not supposed to happen. That is what produces the loud turbine sound.

Can also cause your fan to explode and take out your hood, radiator and everything on the front of the engine.

Have fun :)

Fans hitting things not good :(

WOW this is too funny, my fan clutch went out over the holiday weekend, and you sure can hear the fan woooshing like crazy. I had it replaced yesterday.

Anyone have any idea how long this job should take? I'm debating getting my mech do do it as I don't really have the time, but if it is simple enough, I might do it myself.

Anyone have any idea how long this job should take? I'm debating getting my mech do do it as I don't really have the time, but if it is simple enough, I might do it myself.

Once I figured out how to loosen the 32mm nut, the entire replacement took about 10 minutes.

One of my buddies changed my fan clutch out for me, it took him all of about 10 minutes and I was on my way.

Once I figured out how to loosen the 32mm nut, the entire replacement took about 10 minutes.

did you use the special tool they have to loosen the nut? is there a DIY on this? I dont think I need to replace mine but I will for preventive maint.

Yeah I am going to as well, just for preventative maintainence, 140k I would think it is time. Windy City BMWCCA has the tool for loan to members so that will be cool...

:alright

did you use the special tool they have to loosen the nut? is there a DIY on this? I dont think I need to replace mine but I will for preventive maint.

I didn't have the tool. I just used a standard 32mm wrench, put it on the bolt and then tapped it several times with a hammer to get it to loosen and then unscrewed it normally.

that might work, but if not you can use a long screwdriver to hold in place. or you can get <ahref ="http://www.bavauto.com/shop.asp">this

edit: seem to be having trouble posting links. but i think bavauto has that tool.
<http:> </http:></ahref>

That 32mm nut is a bastard to get off without the special tool. I am in the process of doing it right now, but I acnt lossen the nut. I tried using a really long screw driver so that the pulley would not turn as I am turning the nut but it looke like its seized.

I actually didn't try using a hammer to loosen the nut...

I still cant get the f%$&n nut off. I need that tool. Anyone have any other suggestions.

Mine is about 15 inches long... er.... the wrench that is. I just positioned it at top dead center, grabbed the top of it and then gave it a few solid whacks with a hammer. Once it moves, you can easily just uncrew it. Remember that it's a reverse thread so you need to hit it in a clockwise direction - looking from the front of the car.

I'll try it again today. Thanks for the tip.

I bought a cheep wrench then brought it over to the grinder and thined it down. The key is it is a reversed thread....

I think the bicycle shop may have something like that too, that is real thin.....