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1999 Dodge Caravan Dodge Caravan radiator fan HELP

Tiny
MAMA2MADJ
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 DODGE CARAVAN
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 172,780 MILES
I have a 99 dodge caravan, 172000+mi 6cyl 3.8l 2wd automatic
the van overheated. Found one side of the fan motor was burnt out and the fan to be "locked up"
replaced the fan
fan still wouldn't kick on, still had overheating issues.
replaced the thermostat
still had overheating issues and fan still wouldn't kick on
replaced the radiator fan relay.
fan still won't kick on, still having trouble with overheating
and that is where I am at now
I'm desperate and no clue where else to go. Thinking electrical/wiring issues, but no real clue (I am not "Car savvy"
the radiator is fine, no leaks. Same for the hoses.
it only overheats when idling for 5-10min or in stop and go traffic for 10-15min.
I need any and all help ideas please!
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Tuesday, July 27th, 2010 AT 10:59 PM

9 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,320 POSTS
If you run power directly to the fan motor, does it run? Also, have you checked all fuses? Is there power to the relay?

Basically, this is how it works. The temp sensor on the engine sends a signal to the PCM. The PCM determines when the fan is needed. From there, power is sent to the relay which inturn sends power to the fan motor.
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Tuesday, July 27th, 2010 AT 11:17 PM
Tiny
MAMA2MADJ
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  • 4 POSTS
How do I give power directly to the fan motor?
How can I tell a messed up fuse from a fine one? (And is it only the ones in the engine I need to check, or the ones inside as well?)
and how can I tell if there's power to the relay?
I'm sorry, I am trying to understand. Cars have never been my thing. If I could afford to send it off to someone to check, I would. I am ignorant about cars and engines and such beyond the obvious, but I am trying to understand. I have to.
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Wednesday, July 28th, 2010 AT 12:28 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,320 POSTS
Start with the fuse. Check under the hood, for the fuse. There is a wire that runs through it. If it is bad, you will see a break in the wire. As far as the relay, pull the relay and use a test light to check for power.
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Wednesday, July 28th, 2010 AT 12:54 AM
Tiny
MAMA2MADJ
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  • 4 POSTS
Thank you. I will do the fuses once it's light again tomorrow.
What is a test light? And does the relay need to be disconnected or no?
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Wednesday, July 28th, 2010 AT 1:03 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,320 POSTS
A test light is nothing more that a tool that lights up if power is present. It has a ground and the other end you place on a wire that is to have power. If it lights, there is power present.

As far as the relay, you need to remove it to gain access to the wires it plugs into.
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Wednesday, July 28th, 2010 AT 9:30 PM
Tiny
MAMA2MADJ
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
How do I get one to try out?
Fuses are intact
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Wednesday, July 28th, 2010 AT 9:58 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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They pull out.
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Thursday, July 29th, 2010 AT 12:19 AM
Tiny
MAMA2MADJ
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  • 4 POSTS
I mean getting a test light :)
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Thursday, July 29th, 2010 AT 12:41 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,320 POSTS
Most parts stores will lend you one or anywhere they sell tools you can get one. They are not expensive.
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Thursday, July 29th, 2010 AT 12:45 AM

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