engine bay clicking

[mjjstang]

well I have calculated I'm getting about 16mpg on my 97 SOHC 3.73 4x4 with almost all highway and driving very conservatively, around 73 mph. I think I should get better than that, I have replaced most plugs and wires, with the last two hopefully being installed soon. changed the fuel and air filter too.

I hear a periodic clicking from in the drivers seat, its much louder when hoods open. it sounds like something is engaging, very distinct mechanical click. This wouldn't be a faulty clutch fan at all would it, how can I test my clutch fan for proper engagement. Anyone know what this is, it almost sounds like ac compressor but I don't have the AC on.

 

[dogfriend]

Be aware that the AC may operate when in defrost mode as well as AC mode.

From the Service Manual:

l The PANEL, PANEL/FLOOR, FLOOR, DEFROST/FLOOR, and DEFROST positions are shown as icons on the control head. OFF, MAX A/C, and A/C are printed.

l In the OFF position, all climate control functions cease. The outside air inlet door is closed and the blower motor fan circuit is shut off.

l The MAX A/C position opens the recirculating air door, closes off the outside air inlet, and engages the A/C clutch circuit. The air is directed to the instrument panel registers.

l The A/C position closes the recirculating door, opens the outside air inlet allowing outside air to enter and continues the A/C clutch circuit. The air continues to exit through the panel registers.

l The PANEL position allows outside air to flow through the panel registers with the A/C system off.

l With the A/C system on, the PANEL/FLOOR position allows outside air to flow between the panel registers and the floor outlets.

l The FLOOR position directs outside air through the floor outlets.

l With the A/C system on, the FLOOR/DEFROST position directs the outside air to flow between the floor outlets and the windshield defroster nozzles.

l With the A/C system on, the DEFROST position directs outside air to flow through the defroster nozzles only.

So, to be sure the AC is off, you should turn to Off or Panel.