Electric fan conversion: Is my thinking correct?

Smudgemanuk

Zorg Legend
British Zeds
Joined
Dec 1, 2024
Points
74
Location
Bicester, Oxford
Model of Z
2.8l TU pre-facelift z3
After many hours of research I want to make sure I am barking up the right tree.

A few notes: I have m52TUb28 with air con

I would like to get rid of my viscous fan as, through viewing many posts, I view them as an old fashioned liability.
I Do Not fancy just using the air con fan (with a lower radiator switch) as I view them as a single point of failure and I want complete peace of mind in all heats

Something very similar to this: https://zroadster.org/threads/electric-fan-conversion-i-did-search-honest.28122/

I am thinking of fitting a 16" electric fan to the engine side of the radiator. Something from a decent brand like SPAL etc.

So far my plan is to fit something like below in the bottom radiator pipe. From my research 85*C here kicks in at 98*C engine temp. Which seems quite hot to me? Maybe 80*C would be better?
Screenshot 2025-12-30 at 14.15.57.png


This is low current <1a so provides an activation signal for a relay that I will hardwire in.
Then a manual override with an led in the cabin

Sorry about the missing electrical knowledge, I am leaving a bit of that to my dad!

I am just confirming that all the above is correct and would appreciate any other tips or advice

Thanks
Chris
 
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