Simple question but I thought I'd ask. I have a small coolant leak that showed up after about 700 miles on a new water pump. I can't tell where it's coming from because the fan blows it everywhere. I was wondering if I might be able to run the engine for awhile without the fan and shroud to see if I could see where it was leaking from. If I monitor the temp, is there any problem with doing this? I can't see why not but thought I'd ask. Thanks

 

Sure. There shouldn't be problem to do what it is you want to do.

 

I want to be able to observe the water pump without the fan blowing the coolant around so I can more clearly see where the coolant is coming from.

 

Once you reach operating temperature and shut down the cooling system should remain pressurized until cools off.

 

Righty-o. I know of folks who have removed the fan during cold spells and left it off. For you to remove yours while the observe for leaks isn't a big deal. It's a PITA to remove but still...

 

Why not go buy a pressure tester then pressurize the cooling and see where it leaks. You can always use it on other vehicles later as well. Just a thought.

Bennie C.

 

That's a good thought Bennie. I had heard that from another friend of mine also. I guess it only takes 16 lbs of pressure. But actually I found the leak, it was the o-ring at the thermostat leaking off the back and onto the timing cover. Thanks for all your input!

 

There are quite a few people that remove the fan altogether and run it for months. I wouldn't recommend doing it in Arizona or when you are towing. The 7.3 has a great cooling system and does not always require a fan at all.