Replacing the clutch/fan assembly '89 2.9L

[kcvearner]

Hello, I am new to the forum and want to ask a question about the stock plastic clutch/fan blades on this '89 2.9L XLT with A/C and automatic tran. It has less than 60,000 original miles on it.

I am seeing some issues with the engine overheating. I have replaced the thermostat with a new one that I tested in boiling water, it works. Could be the water pump, but the pulley doesn't seem to have any play in it.

I have noticed that there are some cracks between the plastic fan blades. Should I just replace the whole clutch/fan assembly or just the fan blade?

Sorry, I'm not looking for advice about mechanical vs. electric fans. I've read about that in multiple other threads. I am keeping the mechanical assembly, but thanks just the same.

 

[Psychopete]

The fan is OK if it has cracks, I think most of them do, but get the engine up to temp and turn the fan by hand when the engine is off. It should be very hard to turn, as the thermostatic clutch is engages to cool the coolant in the radiator. That would determine if the clutch is at fault.