How well do the metal flex fans work

[ranger_blue_92]

How welll do the metal flex fans work? Our OEM fan is cracked like all the rest and we're thinking about replacing it. Does anybody sell a replacement fan like the the OEM?

 

[Mudboy]

as long as you don't do any deep water they work pretty good. Had one on my old 79 supecab but that was lifted about 15" and teh water I played in wasn't deep enough for the fan to hit it.

 

[Wrench Head]

I plan on doing this soon, you'll need the adapter FLEX-A-LITE # 851 and a good quality flex fan don't go cheap. The cheap ones will crack around the rivets, better yet are the reinforced nylon fans as they are lighter at around 11 ounces and you don't have to worry about cracks around the rivets. Flex fans do work if your wanting something simple and effective, electric fans are quieter but more expensive.

 

[arco777]

How welll do the metal flex fans work? Our OEM fan is cracked like all the rest and we're thinking about replacing it. Does anybody sell a replacement fan like the the OEM?

Replacement fans like OEM are available cheaply through RockAuto. Bought a couple and been very happy with them.

 

[Anime]

You can get an OEM or aftermarket 10-blade plastic/metal fan that works well, moves more air, and is better than the original fan. OE fans are about $50-60 from Ford or you can get an aftermarket one for about $25 online.

Some have even used the 11-blade fan for newer Explorers/Rangers to move even more air. Since the OHV was used for many model years, the fan and fan clutch for newer models also fits the first gens.

I would not suggest using the cheapo 9-blade fan from Dorman since it seems to develop the same cracks, but is even lower quality so the plastic presents a real risk of coming apart, unlike the OE fan that still holds together.