1997 Ford F150 Radiator Fan Removal Instructions

The radiator fan on a 1997 Ford F-150 is turned by the water pump, which is turned by the belts on the engine. Taking off the fan itself is rather difficult because the pulley it bolts to can turn freely. Removing the fan--and the fan clutch it's attached to--requires a few special tools. That said, it can be done at home in about 15 minutes or so.

Things You'll Need

  • 3/8-inch ratchet and socket set
  • Fan clutch pulley holder tool
  • Open-end wrench set
  • Pop the hood and unbolt the upper fan shroud from the radiator support using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Remove the shroud and set it to the side, out of the way.

  • Place the fan clutch pulley holder tool around the nuts on the water pump pulley so that the pulley will not turn counterclockwise.

  • Place an open-end wrench on the nut for the fan clutch and turn it counterclockwise while holding the water pump pulley steady with the fan clutch pulley holder tool. Break the nut free, then remove it from the water pump and pull the fan off the engine.