If you own a 1987 Camaro, you know that it can be a challenge to keep its engine cool. One of the key components in ensuring your engine stays cool is the cooling fan wiring diagram. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on understanding and troubleshooting the cooling fan wiring diagram in your 1987 Camaro. So, let’s get started!
Understanding the Cooling Fan Wiring Diagram
The cooling fan wiring diagram is a crucial part of your Camaro’s cooling system. It shows the electrical connections between the cooling fan, the temperature switch, and the power source. By understanding this diagram, you can diagnose and troubleshoot cooling fan problems that could be affecting your engine’s performance.
Before we dive deeper into the cooling fan wiring diagram, let’s briefly discuss the two types of cooling fans used in the 1987 Camaro.
Types of Cooling Fans
The 1987 Camaro uses two types of cooling fans: mechanical and electric. The mechanical fan is belt-driven and is mounted on the engine’s water pump. The electric fan, on the other hand, is mounted on the radiator and is controlled by the cooling fan wiring diagram.
Typically, the mechanical fan is used at low speeds, while the electric fan is used at higher speeds. This is because the mechanical fan can’t provide enough cooling at higher speeds and can even hinder the airflow through the radiator. The electric fan, on the other hand, provides better cooling at higher speeds.
The Cooling Fan Wiring Diagram
The cooling fan wiring diagram consists of several components. Let’s take a closer look at each component and how they work together to keep your engine cool.
Temperature Switch
The temperature switch is a sensor that measures the temperature of the engine coolant. When the coolant reaches a certain temperature, the switch sends a signal to the cooling fan relay, which turns on the cooling fan.
Cooling Fan Relay
The cooling fan relay is a switch that controls the flow of electricity to the cooling fan. When the temperature switch sends a signal to the relay, it closes the switch and allows electricity to flow to the cooling fan motor.
Cooling Fan Motor
The cooling fan motor is responsible for turning the fan blades and creating airflow through the radiator. When the relay sends electricity to the motor, it spins the blades and pulls air through the radiator, which cools the engine coolant.
Troubleshooting Cooling Fan Problems
Now that you understand the cooling fan wiring diagram, let’s discuss some common cooling fan problems and how to troubleshoot them.
Problem: Cooling Fan Doesn’t Turn On
If your cooling fan isn’t turning on, it could be due to a faulty temperature switch, cooling fan relay, or cooling fan motor. Here’s how to troubleshoot each component:
Temperature Switch
To check the temperature switch, use a multimeter to measure the resistance between its two pins. If the switch is working properly, it should read zero ohms when the engine is cold and have an infinite reading when the engine is hot. If the switch doesn’t read these values, it’s likely faulty and should be replaced.
Cooling Fan Relay
To check the cooling fan relay, use a multimeter to measure the voltage between its two pins. If you don’t see any voltage, the relay is likely faulty and should be replaced.
Cooling Fan Motor
To check the cooling fan motor, use a 12-volt power source to apply power directly to the motor’s connectors. If the motor doesn’t turn on, it’s likely faulty and should be replaced.
Problem: Cooling Fan Runs Continuously
If your cooling fan runs continuously, it could be due to a faulty temperature switch or cooling fan relay. Here’s how to troubleshoot each component:
Temperature Switch
To check the temperature switch, use a multimeter to measure the resistance between its two pins. If the switch is faulty, it may read a low resistance value even when the engine is cold. In this case, the switch should be replaced.
Cooling Fan Relay
If the cooling fan relay is faulty, it may be stuck in the closed position, causing the fan to run continuously. To check the relay, use a multimeter to measure the voltage between its two pins. If it’s stuck in the closed position, there will be voltage even when the temperature switch is cold. In this case, the relay should be replaced.
Cooling Fan Wiring Diagram FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the purpose of the cooling fan wiring diagram? | The cooling fan wiring diagram shows the electrical connections between the cooling fan, the temperature switch, and the power source. By understanding this diagram, you can diagnose and troubleshoot cooling fan problems that could be affecting your engine’s performance. |
| What are the two types of cooling fans used in the 1987 Camaro? | The 1987 Camaro uses two types of cooling fans: mechanical and electric. The mechanical fan is belt-driven and is mounted on the engine’s water pump. The electric fan, on the other hand, is mounted on the radiator and is controlled by the cooling fan wiring diagram. |
| What is a temperature switch? | The temperature switch is a sensor that measures the temperature of the engine coolant. When the coolant reaches a certain temperature, the switch sends a signal to the cooling fan relay, which turns on the cooling fan. |
| What is a cooling fan relay? | The cooling fan relay is a switch that controls the flow of electricity to the cooling fan. When the temperature switch sends a signal to the relay, it closes the switch and allows electricity to flow to the cooling fan motor. |
| What is a cooling fan motor? | The cooling fan motor is responsible for turning the fan blades and creating airflow through the radiator. When the relay sends electricity to the motor, it spins the blades and pulls air through the radiator, which cools the engine coolant. |
Conclusion
The cooling fan wiring diagram is an essential part of your 1987 Camaro’s cooling system. By understanding its components and how they work together, you can diagnose and troubleshoot cooling fan problems that could be affecting your engine’s performance. By following the troubleshooting tips in this article, you can keep your Camaro’s cooling system in top condition and ensure your engine stays cool.
