EFK wiring: I didn't want the fan to ALWAYS run with A/C so I did this.

[Angular]

That's all fine and dandy Brad, but when you're in stop and go traffic with the AC on, you will want to have it on all the time when the AC is on. So then what? :P

Never happens. However, when/if I move to Hawaii I will probably consider rewiring the stupid fan.

However, its supposed to operate that way (coming on with the A/C) because an A/C system needs airflow over the condenser for it to work properly. As pointed out above, the mechanical fan, or 3rd front fan used to preform this task while stationary or at low speed, but since those are now gone, the EFK must compensate for their departure. That's why pop machines, refrigerators, etc all have little fans in them to move air across their condenser. I think you may want to reconsider this unless you are removing your A/C system completely. You can always press the "econ" button to turn off the fan and A/C system while operating the climate control.

I understand how refrigeration systems work and certainly this isn't the mod for people that live in a warm climate or need max A/C efficiency in stop & go traffic. But for someone like me that lives in a cooler climate this was a simple and effective solution to a noisy fan that was running almost 100% of the time when it didn't need to. Let's not forget the two auxiliary cooling fans still run whenever the A/C is on so there always some airflow over the condenser even at a stop. Incidentally, I almost never use "ECON" mode because the A/C is still necessary to dehumidify the air when the heat is on.

So, yeah, this is far from the optimal solution for quiet AND efficient electric radiator fan operation in all climates. Better solutions would include a two-speed fan and/or a thermostat-relay combo unit with a temp sensor probe to turn the fan on/off.

[getslideways]

Never happens. However, when/if I move to Hawaii I will probably consider rewiring the stupid fan.

you must tell me your secret to avoiding traffic on 167, I-5, 18, and 405 when trying to escape the 253. Is there a secret club I need to join? Will you vouch for me as a member?

I understand how refrigeration systems work and certainly this isn't the mod for people that live in a warm climate or need max A/C efficiency in stop & go traffic. But for someone like me that lives in a cooler climate this was a simple and effective solution to a noisy fan that was running almost 100% of the time when it didn't need to. Let's not forget the two auxiliary cooling fans still run whenever the A/C is on so there always some airflow over the condenser even at a stop. Incidentally, I almost never use "ECON" mode because the A/C is still necessary to dehumidify the air when the heat is on.

So, yeah, this is far from the optimal solution for quiet AND efficient electric radiator fan operation in all climates. Better solutions would include a two-speed fan and/or a thermostat-relay combo unit with a temp sensor probe to turn the fan on/off.

Seattle's past summer wasn't exactly chilly, especially when you put some distance between yourself and the sound/lake. However perhaps spending some time in beautiful HI makes a warm Seattle summer not seem quite so warm in comparison.

Do you still have your 3rd fan in front of the radiator? If so, then yes, having your EFK pop on with the A/C system would be redundant. That fan is usually deleted with an EFK install. You are also right about the little guy on the passenger side coming on with the A/C, and yes, A/C isn't just for making air cold, contrary to popular belief. Hence why pushing the dedicated front windshield defroster button on the climate control automatically turns off econ mode as well.

Did you go with a straight blade fan or an "s" blade? I ran an "S" for my EFK setup as I was concerned about noise too, and its barely noticeable with the car running and me standing outside of it.

As long as you are happy, and its functioning the way you like, then that's all the matters.

[Angular]

you must tell me your secret to avoiding traffic on 167, I-5, 18, and 405 when trying to escape the 253. Is there a secret club I need to join? Will you vouch for me as a member?

Easy... live in Federal Way, work in Tacoma, and stay the hell away from Seattle. When you must battle traffic, drive the wife's car.

Do you still have your 3rd fan in front of the radiator? If so, then yes, having your EFK pop on with the A/C system would be redundant. That fan is usually deleted with an EFK install.

Did you go with a straight blade fan or an "s" blade? I ran an "S" for my EFK setup as I was concerned about noise too, and its barely noticeable with the car running and me standing outside of it.

Yes, sir. I still have the 3rd fan in front. Unfortunately I got a straight blade SPAL fan from *cough* VAST *cough* and it's a bit noisy. Hindsight being 20/20, I wish I'd have ordered a dual speed S-blade fan of some kind.