IC fan needed?

[ThikStik]

Hey Guys,
My 87 came without its IC fan-is that very bad? I have been chasing knock since having this car. I also have wondered if anyone has insulated the IC housing with something to keep hot radiator air from soaking it.
Thanks

 

[trbodon21]

I used the stock intercooler with no fan and had no problems on a near stock set up.
-Don

 

[buickboy]

I sent a PM
Mitch

 

[Ormand]

The intercooler shroud is plastic, on the stock IC. Doesn't absorb or transmit much heat, and keeps the hot air from the radiator off the IC core. The stock fan pulls a little air through at low speed, might help to keep the IC from "heat soaking", but since it turns at engine rpm, it won't move much air unless you drive around in first gear all the time! It can't be very efficient, either, with no shroud. (But it probably doesn't block flow at highway speed, either) Some of the aftermarket ICs are using an electric fan to keep down the heat soak.

 

[broke1]

IMO and others the fan is a MUST. Mease says they move alot of air. Ill be using one on my 24 row stock location till dealers start stocking KM parts.Im going to get one of the electic fans with a shroud.

Why do you think GM put the fans on the cars in the 1st place?? Because they work.

Do a search,LOTS of info.

 

[JDSfastGN]

My fan broke. I took it off and noticed no difference at all. From what I've heard what you loose in any heat soak you make up by having less mass rotating on the crank. I don't think it will hurt or help either way.

 

[ThikStik]

I suppose since Im in the hot and overly-red lighted Southeast-often sitting at a red light with AC on that I should run one. Thanks guys

 

[scottyb]

What's everyone's thoughts on using an electric fan? I've often thought that I will put one on if the stocker ever breaks. A buddy has a box full of small/medium sized fans I may play with, but I don't expect notable results.