cooling

Cooling Fan Clutch

for 2014 Ram 2500 6.7L I6 Cummins Diesel · 4WD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
1.6 h
Tools
7
Steps
10

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the engine cooling fan clutch on a 2014 Ram 2500 with the 6.7L Cummins diesel engine.

Warnings

⚠️Allow engine to cool completely before beginning work. Hot coolant can cause severe burns.
The fan clutch has LEFT-HAND threads and loosens clockwise when viewed from the front of the vehicle.
Do not drop the fan clutch assembly as it can damage the radiator.
ℹ️The fan clutch and blade assembly is heavy. Have an assistant available or use care when removing.

Tools required

36mm fan clutch wrench or adjustable wrenchEssential
Fan clutch holding toolEssential
Socket set (metric)Essential
Torque wrenchEssential
Screwdriver set
Drain panEssential
Shop towels

Parts

  • Fan clutch assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
  • Coolant (if draining system) × 1 — Mopar OAT Purple

Fluids

  • Mopar OAT Coolant (Purple) — 2 qt

Preparation

  1. Ensure engine is completely cool to the touch
  2. Disconnect negative battery cable
  3. Remove engine cover if equipped
  4. Inspect fan shroud for damage and note mounting bolt locations

Procedure

  1. 1
    Remove upper radiator shroud
    Remove the bolts securing the upper radiator fan shroud to the radiator support. There are typically 4-6 bolts around the perimeter. Carefully lift the shroud upward and set aside. On some models, you may need to disconnect overflow hose clips from the shroud.
  2. 2
    Access the fan clutch
    Locate the fan clutch nut at the center of the fan assembly. This nut is threaded onto the water pump shaft. Identify the flat spots or hex on the water pump pulley behind the fan clutch for holding tool placement.
  3. 3
    Secure the water pump pulley
    Install the fan clutch holding tool on the water pump pulley to prevent it from rotating. The tool should engage the bolt holes in the pulley. Ensure the tool is securely seated before applying torque to the fan clutch nut.
  4. 4
    Remove fan clutch nut
    Using the 36mm fan clutch wrench, turn the fan clutch nut CLOCKWISE to loosen (left-hand threads). Apply steady pressure while holding the pulley stationary with the holding tool. Once loose, unthread the nut completely by hand and remove it.
  5. 5
    Remove fan clutch and blade assembly
    Carefully pull the fan clutch and blade assembly straight off the water pump shaft. Tilt the assembly as needed to clear the radiator and shroud mounts. Be extremely careful not to strike the radiator with the fan blades. Set the assembly on a clean work surface with the fan clutch facing up.
  6. 6
    Inspect components
    Examine the water pump shaft threads for damage or debris. Check the fan blade for cracks or damage. Inspect the radiator for any impact damage from the fan. Clean the water pump shaft threads with a shop towel if needed.
  7. 7
    Install new fan clutch assembly
    Carefully guide the new fan clutch and blade assembly onto the water pump shaft, tilting as necessary to clear obstructions. Ensure the fan clutch threads engage properly with the water pump shaft. Thread the fan clutch nut on by hand, turning COUNTER-CLOCKWISE (left-hand threads). Thread on until snug.
  8. 8
    Torque fan clutch nut
    Install the fan clutch holding tool on the water pump pulley. Using the 36mm wrench and turning COUNTER-CLOCKWISE, tighten the fan clutch nut to manufacturer specification (typically 50-70 Nm or 37-52 lb-ft). Do not overtighten as this can damage the water pump bearings. Verify the fan clutch is seated flush against the pulley.
  9. 9
    Reinstall radiator shroud
    Position the upper radiator shroud back into place, ensuring all mounting tabs align properly. Reconnect any overflow hose clips to the shroud. Install and tighten all shroud mounting bolts securely.
  10. 10
    Final checks
    Verify the fan blade has adequate clearance from the radiator (minimum 25mm or 1 inch all around). Rotate the fan by hand to check for binding or interference. Ensure all tools are removed from the engine bay. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

Reassembly

  1. Ensure fan clutch is tightened securely with left-hand threads (counter-clockwise to tighten)
  2. Verify minimum 25mm clearance between fan blade tips and radiator at all points
  3. Reinstall engine cover if equipped
  4. Check coolant level in overflow reservoir and top off if necessary

Verification

  • Start the engine and verify the fan rotates smoothly without wobble or noise
  • Allow engine to reach operating temperature and verify fan clutch engages properly (increased fan speed and noise)
  • Check for any unusual vibrations or sounds from the fan area
  • Verify no coolant leaks are present
  • Shut off engine and recheck fan blade clearance to radiator

More procedures for this vehicle

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