I'd like to first say this is my first posting, this site has helped me out quite a bit so i'm hoping to get some feedback on this.
I drive a 2000 Ram 1500 Sport 5.9, not sure if this is a big issue or not but my radiator fan seems to kick on and off a lot, the temp. here is in the mid to lower 30's and wouldn't expect the fan to need to run all that much. I didn't notice it until i was in the drive through lane and heard it kick on and off about 4 or 5 times while sitting there. My heat seems to work ok and my temp control gauge really doesnt even get near the 1/2 mark. It's starting to sound like the fan is getting tired of kicking on and off so much, like it's getting noiser, could it be the thermostat??
Any feed back would be much appreciated.

 

Do you have an E-fan??? (that would not be stock.....)

Welcome to DF!

 

I'm assuming you're using window defrost which uses the A/C compressor. Does the clutch kick in when defrost is on? That would make the fan work.

 

I'm pretty certain i don't have an e-fan. The window defrost stikes a cord though because i do typically run my heat through my defrost...i hate having hot air blowing on my face I'll have to pay attention to that when i drive it today and see if that's when it kicks on...would that be considered normal then?

 

Stock radiator fan has a thermal clutch. I.E. it only really 'runs' when it thinks it needs to, otherwise, it just sorta freewheels on the shaft. You should be able to turn it fairly easily when the engine is cold, and it should stiffen up with a hot motor. (don't try and grab it with the engine running..... very bad plan. Don't ask how I know.....)((Yes, I still have all my fingers.))

 

The next time your truck is warmed up you should cut on the heat and look at the ac compressor, I bet what you're hearing is the compressors clutch engaging and disengaging.

 

I'll second that, the AC clutch runs whether you have the AC or heat on. Never figured out why they were so lazy on that aspect...

 

Probably to keep all the seals lubricated by intermittently cycling the coolant during the colder months.
That or they just overlooked it when they designed the truck.

 

Refrigerated air carries less moisture. So, on those high moisture content days.... when you turn the defroster on, it also runs the A/C compressor.

I always thought that, if I NEED the defroster, its a good bet that the air outside my truck is ALL basically refrigerated....