So, the last time I did an electric fan conversion on an S30 was about 7 years ago, and the temperature probes were the low-tech solution of sticking them in the fins of the radiator. That was a cheesy installation, and the new one I have for my '78 is much nicer on all counts, including the probe, which is meant to go in the top hose.

Here's the thing: I'm not entirely sure how to install the probe. The instructions with the fan make it look like you just run the probe wire into the top hose under the clamp from the radiator end, and zip tie the wire to the radiator inlet with the included self-adhesive foam pad. This seems both too easy, and maybe a little slap-dash. Will it really clamp and seal over the probe wire? It is just a single bare metal wire, and not too heavy of a gauge. Am I just making this way more complicated than it actually is? This is the last thing I need to hook up before putting gas in, priming the fuel system, and starting the engine for the first time, so I'm just paranoid about being sure everything is correct and ready to go.

Thanks for any input,
Dave

 

You know I've seen this kind of install and it didn't give the guy any problem. When I first saw it this way I was like okay...someone is a little lazy, but he said that's how he was told to install it. He was running the car the whole time we were talking...I didn't see it leak. The wire was thin...is it this way in your application? I don't see a problem, if it's a wire like this guy had.

 

Thanks! That's very good to hear. Sounds exactly the same style. Yeah, the wire in the kit I have is quite thin, at most about 16 gauge, no insulation. I'll give it a try. If that one wasn't leaking, this one has at least a decent chance of working. I suppose even if it does leak, I can fabricate an in-line fitting, cut the upper hose, and put it in that way later.
Thanks for the info!
Dave

 

Use electrical tape around the element wire. I have used one like this for a long time now with no problems. You should be just fine, and it gets much more accurate readings from inside the system.

 

Hi guys, just wanted to say thanks for the help and advice. I got the probe installed (it even looks decent), and with a little adjusting and clamping/reclamping of the upper rad hose, it's working great. I've run the car through the initial 20 to 30 minute break-in, and the engine's doing great. I wish my truck ran that well. Can't wait to drive it (need front brakes, seats, belts/harnesses, and a few finishing bits like bumper guards, vent control panel surround, etc.)!
thanks again,
Dave

 

Good deal.