Ep 2. Horsepower-Killing Fans!

In Engine Masters season 2 episode 2, titled "Horsepower-Killing Fans!", the team turns their attention to the often-overlooked component of the engine cooling system: the fan. Hosts David Freiburger and Steve Dulcich dive deep into the world of fan design and testing, exploring how different types of fans can affect engine performance and horsepower.

The episode kicks off with a quick overview of the basics of engine cooling, with Freiburger and Dulcich highlighting the importance of keeping your engine at the right temperature to ensure optimal performance and longevity. They then move on to discussing the various types of fans available on the market, from mechanical fans to electric fans and everything in between.

Next, the hosts head to the dyno room to put four different types of fans to the test: a stock mechanical fan, a high-performance mechanical fan, a high-output electric fan, and a low-output electric fan. Using a Chevy 350 small block engine as their test subject, they run each fan for a set amount of time and measure the engine's horsepower output to see how much each fan affects performance.

What follows is a fascinating deep dive into the engineering and design behind each fan, as Freiburger and Dulcich break down the pros and cons of each type and explain the factors that make one fan more effective at cooling than another. They also discuss the impact of fan placement and shroud design on performance, highlighting how even small tweaks to the cooling system can have a big impact on horsepower.

Throughout the episode, Freiburger and Dulcich maintain their trademark humor and banter, making for an entertaining and informative watch. They also provide plenty of helpful tips for gearheads looking to upgrade their engine cooling system, whether you're a seasoned pro or a newbie looking to learn more about the ins and outs of high-performance engines.

Overall, "Horsepower-Killing Fans!" is a must-watch episode for anyone interested in engine performance and tuning. It's a fast-paced, engaging exploration of a topic that doesn't always get the attention it deserves, and the insights and knowledge that Freiburger and Dulcich bring to the table are sure to be valuable for anyone looking to get the most out of their engine. So buckle up and get ready to learn all about the fascinating world of engine cooling fans!