I was originally planning to do a clutch to electric radiator fan conversion in my 2001 Grand Vitara. The main reason behind choosing that conversion was for the ability to run a thermo switch bypass for trail use, where the speeds are low and the engine load is high. The bypass switch imo would have helped ensure things stay cool in demanding times.

Just recently I was told of an alternative idea.. that is, to leave the factory clutch fan, but run a bypass switch to my (pusher) AC fan. That way the AC fan and assist in cooling..

What are your thoughts on the idea?

Also, where is the relay for the AC fan on those trucks located?

I had an electric fan that replaced my stock damaged fan clutch, did this
conversion when I did the turbo, and I had nothing but overheating
problems, so I went back to the stock fan and was much happier.

The problem was I was pulling air thru the intercooler and the radiator,
and there just wasn't enough flow to keep it all cool

IMO The stock pusher fan will be fine for on the trail heat control,
and also, I don't really think you are going to need it, but the option
would be nice. Go wheeling and see if you have trouble with overheating,
I've wheeled here in the So Cal deserts and don't have any trouble in
the hot weather

Wild

^ Actually I read your cooling issues with the clutch vs electric fan while doing some research. That's another reason why i'm considering keeping the stock clutch fan.

I have no troubles with engine cooling at all.. but I just like having the extra safety on hand..

So far I have over 255,000kms on that engine, it barely burns oil and runs smoothly.. I usually go for any mods that can ensure further longevity..

Thanks

The condenser fan relay is located alongside the underhood fuse panel - should be the one closest to the front of the vehicle (for RHD).

Just so you're aware of it - on the GV the ECU controls the a/c condenser fan - it monitors the engine temperature and in an overheat situation it WILL, if the a/c is off, energize the condenser fan, or if the a/c is on, de-energize the compressor clutch but leave the fan on - so you don't need to make any changes, Suzuki has already put something in place.

Actually there is a second advantage to an electric fan in off road situations - I don't know if you encounter "deep" water in Trinidad (your rivers nowhere near as large as ours  ), but, with an electric fan you can switch the fan off before going into the water.

There are two problems that occur when an engine driven fan encounters water - the first is that as soon as the lower blades of the fan dip into the water, the fan lifts it and splashes it around the engine bay, which with a gasolene engine is not what you really want - the second is that the blades pull toward the radiator core when they enter the water - plastic blades can break and metal blades can bend & slice the core destroying it.

The condenser fan relay is located alongside the underhood fuse panel - should be the one closest to the front of the vehicle (for RHD).

Just so you're aware of it - on the GV the ECU controls the a/c condenser fan - it monitors the engine temperature and in an overheat situation it WILL, if the a/c is off, energize the condenser fan, or if the a/c is on, de-energize the compressor clutch but leave the fan on - so you don't need to make any changes, Suzuki has already put something in place.

I was told by a Suzuki mechanic that the condenser fan will come in case of an overheat situation.. but I was not aware that the ECU will also switch off the AC! pretty smart..

I'm not a big fan of water crossings so that would not be an issue for me. I tend to panic and back out once water approaches 2' in height. 

Thanks for the relay location, should be pretty easy to find..