Bubba "fixed" my elec radiator fan

arrio · 06-12-03, 09:36 PM

I knew that my 81 didn't have a rad shroud. It also has a single aftermarket electric fan pinned through the radiator core. But I was not prepared to see how he "fixed" the elec fan switch. He bypassed the original thermal switch and used the interior fan speed switch to control the rad fan. Thats right, no more interior fan control.
I was checking over the dash controls when I turned on the interior fans. I could hear a fan turning on and changing speeds, but nothing from the vents. Then I thought the sound was rather odd as it didn't sound like it was coming from the dash. I checked over the wiring for the rad fan and found it spliced into the heater fan. Incredible.......
I found a used original shroud, elec fan and clutch fan assembly from another forum member. (thanks!!)

I'm still seeking the center and right side intake ducts with accordian boots.

Vader · 06-21-03, 11:00 AM

Seems like "Bubba" gets around. He apparently worked on this one as well.

The '81 should have a fan shroud with electric fan mounted to it (as you probably know). I wish I knew where to direct you toward a set of ducts. I just repaired them by plastic welding the cracked areas and reforming the deformed areas with a heat gun.

Yoda · 06-21-03, 01:47 PM

arrio,

FYI the original accordion connection between the air cleaner and the duct assy. were a cloth almost canvas type material. I'm not sure they are still available in this design, I've only seen them in a Plastic, they are available from the aftermarket Corvettes parts companies.

I've also seen the entire set-up for sale on Ebay too. If you go to the L81VetteRegistry "Links" page you will find 2 links to 1981 Corvette Ebay auction sites

Good luck in your search, and don't be too tough on "Bubba" ... there's a little Bubba in all of us at one time or another

(sometimes it actually is better than the original design, but most times it's a quick fix that never gets corrected... sigh

)

81 Corvette · 08-13-03, 04:53 PM

you can have my old ducts, but htey have some holes in them

Blade · 08-13-03, 05:07 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by 81 Corvette
you can have my old ducts, but htey have some holes in them

Bubba says: Duct tape will fix dat!

arrio · 08-13-03, 05:31 PM

Well. I recently acquired a right side intake duct , the long plastic one, from eBay. I still need the center one that extends over the radiator. I may get it from Ecklers or other, if one doesn't present itself on ebay or one of the vette classifieds boards. After, or when I get the center duct I'll spring for some new short ducts to connect from the aircleaner to the plastic intake ducts.

81 Corvette · 08-14-03, 08:36 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by NC 50anny
Bubba says: Duct tape will fix dat!

No wanna fix it. I yanked the scoop out the other day. I'm trying to get all the extra crap out of the engine bay.

08-17-03, 09:38 PM

I have the whole intake duct system for an 81 vette. Went with dual electric fans and don't need them anymore. i can be reached at hhendrix@cox.net and we can work something out if you still need them.

Herb81