I have a 1999 Dodge Dakota R/t, i started mytrucka few days ago and heard some rattling under the hood, turns out i have a bad fan clutch and it needs to be replaced. im wondering if its as stupid and reckless as i think it is to continue driving it.Now when i say driving i mean taking back roads to keep the rpms down and no racing or reving, only to work and back, bout 15 mins.id only dirve becauseits not a common part and needs to be ordered. and today is friday so im screwed.

anyone who has replaced their fan clutch in and dakota or durango please leave comments on installation and pricing. i think it is a very simple install but ya never know.

 

You should be fine driving it, it is just going to kill your MPG most likely. I would keep a spare serpantine belt in your truck and a wrench to fit the belt tensioner just in case it snaps the belt. You should get a new belt anywaywhen you install the new fan clutch/pulley, so this is an extra safety precaution that you will need to get anyway.

 

Also, try using the search function or look in the DIY section. I know someone has done a write-up on this install at some point.

 

my biggest concern is the possibility of the fan coming off and bouncing around and ripping apart everything it can. what exactly holds the fan clutch on, is it just that one reverse bolt or what.

 

if the bearing is shot in the clutch,it can definitely come aprt and so some serious damage-hoses,a/c hoses,radiator,shroud,a/c condensor,hood-should i keep going?be safe not sorry-park it until you get parts.

 

My clutch fan went out on my Dakota a few years ago. Drove it for about a week when the fan finally just siezed up. Luckily it actuallysiezed up on start up and the engine just wouldnt turn over.
It actually happend to my brother since he was driving the truck while i was out of town for a few weeks. He just replaced the Clutch itself for mesince it was alot cheaper than a whole new unit...

Hope this helps

Mac

 

$65 autozone part.