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Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature

Keeping a truck running cool is very important. The radiator, fan, and water pump are the basic components of a cooling system and are vital in keeping the engine from over heating. Technology has improved the cooling systems in our rides with raditors that cool more efficiently, water pumps that move more water, and power robbing beltdriven fans have now been replaced with electric units.

However, older rides still have the old antiquated technology. To solve this issue, SPAL offers the most recent in cooling technology for anyone who wishes to keep their ride's temperature in check. We also have to note that SPAL has been a prime supplier of cooling fans for Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati for over 40 years. Now, that technology is made available in the aftermarket.

Originally created as an OEM piece for the Maserati Quattroporte, SPAL's dual 12-inch high performance fan unit is now available to the U.S. as an aftermarket part. The fans flows more than 2,900 cubic feet per minute (cfm) and are a perfect fit for large truck radiators. To control the fans, SPAL recommends their custom-programmable fan controller that allows a single SPAL cooling fan to vary speed based on engine temperature - thereby increasing fan life while decreasing under hood noise. SPAL USA's "Back in Black" 1967 Chevy C-10 project is just the type of truck that needs a good cooling system... especially when it is cooling a heavy hitting LS1 engine!

  • Vehicle: 1967 Chevrolet C10 Pickup (Project "Back in Black")
  • Products: Dual 12" High Performance Fan and FAN-PWM (electronic programmable fan controller)
  • Application: Muscle cars and full-size trucks
  • Install Time: 2-3 hours
  • Install Difficulty: Moderate (experience, special skills, and special tools required)
  • Tools Required: Phillips head screw driver, wire crimper/stripper, electrical tape


Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
SPAL USA's LS-1 equipped project '67 Chevy C10 is more than a hot rod pickup - it's a rolling testament to SPAL USA technology. SPAL schools us on how to outfit a project with a new dual fan and programmable fan controller.
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
The truck was originally fitted with SPAL's popular 16" high performance fan paired with a Performance Rod & Custom radiator.
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
This combination was enough for a stock LS1, but when SPAL decided to add a ProCharger and intercooler to the mix, they had to increase airflow, and out came the old fan.
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
SPAL's new Dual 12" High Performance Fan was originally created as original equipment for the Maserati Quattroporte. That's all the convincing we need!
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
After welding four additional mounting points on the radiator tanks the new fan fit right in.
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
Next up was SPAL's new programmable fan controller, or FAN-PWM. We're telling you, it is one sophisticated little black box! Notice the fins, designed not for looks, but to help keep the unit cool. A detailed instruction book comes complete with diagrams for various set-ups: single/dual fans, with/without A/C, and OEM/SPAL temperature sensors.
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
The first step was to choose a location to mount the FAN-PWM module, remember that the buttons on the module would need to be accessible later on for programming. The module can be installed in the engine bay or inside the cab - just be sure to steer clear of high heat sources.
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
SPAL mounted the module using the four (4) self-tapping screws (supplied).
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
The '67 Chevy, with its new dual fan set-up, required a Fan Relay Harness (FRH). SPAL decided to mount it next to the FAN-PWM module. Hey, makes sense to us!
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
Next, the wires were routed. SPAL made sure to keep away from high heat sources.
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
One side of the fuse holder was connected to the red wire of the power harness using the (supplied) yellow butt connector and then connected to the other side using the ring terminal. SPAL did NOT insert the fuse yet.
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
The black wire of the power harness was then installed to a proper ground source using the ring terminal.
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
Connect one side ofthe fuse holder to the red wire of the power harness using the supplied yellow butt connector and then connect the other side using the ring terminal. DO NOT INSERT FUSE YET.
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
The time had come to connect the temperature sensor wire from the appropriate harness. In this case, SPAL used the OEM temperature sensor, so they connected the white wire to the factory temperature yellow signal wire found on the cylinder head.
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
The next step called for the A/C signal wire from the A/C harness to be connected to the compressor wire. Here SPAL decided to attach the signal wire to the compressor wire at the condenser unit. Every fan uses a different size fuse. A quick reference to the installation instruction manual showed a 30 amp fuse (but no more!) was called for.
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
SPAL started the truck and let it warm up to the desired "Low" temperature setting. Next, they pressed and held the "Low" button on the FAN-PWM module and waited until the light began to flash. The "Low" setting was now programmed. They repeated the process to program the "High" setting. Then they turned off and the truck and let it cool down.
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
Finally, SPAL connected the fan and restarted the vehicle to test the programmed settings and verify they were correct. If they had not been, the programming procedures above would have been repeated.
Fan & FAN-PWM Installation Feature
The fan upgrade took SPAL's '67 Chevy pickup from 2,360 CFM to 3,170 CFM - that's a 30% increase! And with the Fan-PWM, SPAL has total control over the flow!

Source Information:

SPAL USA
1731 SE Oralabor Rd.
Ankeny, Iowa 50021
800.345.0327
www.spalusa.com


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