Overview
The Crown Automotive 52003205 is a thermal fan clutch for 1987–2001 Jeep Cherokee (XJ) models and 1997–2003 Jeep Wrangler (TJ) SE models. A thermal fan clutch uses a temperature-sensitive element to control how much the cooling fan engages, which is the job this replacement part does.
Crown Automotive has supplied replacement Jeep parts for more than 50 years, and its catalog includes many factory-discontinued items.
Key features
- Direct-fit thermal fan clutch replacement
- Covers Cherokee XJ and Wrangler TJ SE applications
- Crown part number 52003205 with UPC 848399013139
- Made by Crown Automotive, a manufacturer and distributor of Jeep replacement parts
How a thermal fan clutch works
A thermal fan clutch sits on the water pump shaft and uses a silicone fluid chamber with a bimetal coil at the front. When air passing the coil is hot, the coil opens a valve that lets the fluid couple the fan to the shaft. When the engine is cool, the fan can spin more freely, which reduces noise and drag. This is why a failing clutch shows up as either overheating or constant fan noise.
Inspect the clutch with the engine cold and off. Spin the fan by hand and feel for resistance that changes with the clutch’s condition. Check for oil residue around the housing and wobble at the fan. Fan blades and bolts should be checked at the same time, because a damaged fan can ruin a new clutch quickly.
- Check for fluid residue around the clutch housing
- Spin the fan by hand with the engine off to feel for drag
- Look for fan wobble or cracked blades
Specifications
| Brand | Crown Automotive |
|---|---|
| Part number | 52003205 |
| UPC | 848399013139 |
| Part type | Thermal fan clutch |
| Fit type | Direct fit |
Vehicle fitment
The manufacturer fitment list covers 1987–2001 Jeep Cherokee (XJ) in the Base, Briarwood, Chief, Classic, Country, Laredo, Limited, Pioneer, SE and Sport trims, and 1997–2003 Jeep Wrangler (TJ) in the SE trim.
Wrangler TJ trims other than SE, and Cherokee years after 2001, are not on this list. Confirm your vehicle’s year, model and trim before ordering.
What’s included
Check the new clutch against your existing unit, including any mounting hardware, before installing it.
