The need for a remote fan switch

[JohnFol]

My car had a switch added to the dashboard to allow the driver to turn on the radiator fan. Seems this is a common thing, rather than a previous owner not fixing things properly.

So here is my question. If the automatically operated thermostatic fan switch works correctly, why is a remote manual switch required?

[Nigel]

Hi John,

If the rad switch is working well, no back-up is needed.

However, if it's suspect, or if stop/start traffic on hot days is a regular occurrence,
having that dash option could be your get-out-of-jail card.

Nigel

 

[JohnFol]

This is the UK so regular stops in traffic, but not regular hot days!

[GerardJPC]

I think that a switch for the fan is a good idea for city traffic in summer.  You can bring the fan on a bit earlier and mitigate the level of heat in the engine bay, which may have knock on effects on the fuelling.

[WestonE]

I fit one routinely even though I have ECU and Rad sensor switching. I want the option because stuck in traffic somewhere hot with a fully loaded car is no time to not see the fans kick in.

Eric
PS I use rotary switches because they are compact and do not get accidentally knocked on.

[JohnFol]

Sounds sensible. I might try and find an illuminated rocker switch so I know it's on.

Eric / all, do you also stick a timer on the manual switch so it stays on for a period of time after the ignition goes off?