Running the fan on a switch is dumb, as proven here once again. So is having it wired to run full time. You're going to burn up your fans doing that. Both of these methods are penny wise and dollar foolish. Just put a controller in it already.

 

I agree to get the most benefit from the eFan is to use a controller. However if you are a off roader I think a cutout switch also might be a good idea.
My street truck very seldom has the efan come on, unless sitting in traffic and then it cycles on my temperature set point (200F).

 

Why is a cutout switch a good idea for offroad?

 

Although I've not done it because I usually stop and unload the ATV long before getting into sh*t deep enough, but it's common a lot of guys who off road in water and mud install a manual on/off switch as an over-ride to keep from sucking debris into the radiator fins.
I DID do this on my ATV though as part of a snorkeling project that I've not finished yet...

 

I never thought of that.

 

Hmmm, I once saw the radiator and fan on a Wrangler damaged when he got too deep at a river crossing. The fan bent and got sucked into the radiator, acted like a boat prop, but it isn't strong enough for water. It was a factory clutch fan, but this might be another reason.

 

Not gonna tell you what everyone else already said..haha

But, you should have let the truck RUN and flipped the switch rather than turning the truck off. When you turn the truck off the engine usually gets hotter before it begins to get cooler. You could have stayed parked, flipped the switch and it would only have taken maybe 3-4min and your temp would have been low enough to continue on with life.
Guys that do the manual on/off do that for High speed only.

 

If I'm not mistaken 'Froggy, I believe Flex-a-Lite sells the manual over-ride switch as an optional component to their efan kits.

I thought I might have a pic of my ATV with the switch but can't find one. Since I'm in Florida for a bit and the ATV is up at the farm, I can't take a pic. But I basically just took a $3.99 25A switch from Auto Zone and tapped a wire inline between the fuse and radiator fan motor, drilled a hole in the plastic cowling below my handle bars and mounted it there. Works well when I get into deep soup, WHEN I remember to use it. LOL...

 

this is a great idea i cant believe i didnt think of this, i am constantly crossing rivers and creeks and such.. im getting to the point i need a switch panel for my truck

 

Thanks guys. im taking in my radiator in to get fixed rather than getting a new one ($200) and i just ordered a controller.