Would you run an electric fan right next to a fuel cell?

Greg

Greg

Nobody Cares, Work Harder
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I'm changing up the layout in the back of my TJ, with a new fuel cell and relocating the transmission cooler. I've been thinking about standing the cooler and fan up, next to the fuel cell... or possibly mount it underneath the fuell cell to make use of dead space.

Previously the cooler and fan were 6-8" away from the fuel cell and it was never a issue, but I'm worried about potential fire danger if the vent, fill or any other fittings leak gas or even fumes and a spark from the fan ignites them. 🔥🔥🔥

Am I being overly paranoid or is this a legit concern?

I should move the trans cooler to in front of the radiator and not even need a second fan, but the full hydro cooler is sitting in that space... and that's a lot of heat for one fan to manage.

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DAA said:
My completely ignorant uninformed take.

There's electric shit plugged right into the fuel cell. And I like to imagine I'm living dangerously. I'd run it.

- DAA
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Sure, I just don't know about the motor on the fan firing up frequently... I'm using a standard (not brushless) Spal fan which should have a sealed motor, but I just don't know if it could be an issue.
 
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I don't think I'd even worry about it....but if you feel inclined, extend the tank vent somewhere farther away.
 
I was planning to space it an inch off the fuel cell, for air flow.

But now I really want to move it in front of the radiator, with a slightly smaller cooler to make it fit.
 
1969honda said:
I would air gap and leave it if the other option is a smaller cooler out front.
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I don't really like the fan (and cooler) in the back of the TJ, it adds a LOT of heat & noise very close to the seats.

That said, I realize how valuable a large transmission cooler with its own dedicated fan is, especially for a crawler. Transmissions are expensive, keeping a good one happy is wise.
 
I figure your a pretty smart guy, definitely more experienced than me with crawlers, but I wanted to be Mr. Obvious/Devils advocate for a minute.

*edited for technological deficiencies with auto correct spelling
 
Mouse said:
I might be more concerned about the extra noise constantly in my ears
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Between the noise and the heat blowing up into the passenger compartment, it's definitely been annoying. That's how it was setup when I bought it, but sitting horizontally. I'm going to move it forward of the radiator, just get it out of the way.
 
Greg said:
Between the noise and the heat blowing up into the passenger compartment, it's definitely been annoying. That's how it was setup when I bought it, but sitting horizontally. I'm going to move it forward of the radiator, just get it out of the way.
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Did it used to blow up through that hole? why not make it blow down? I see no issue with what you want to do.
 
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