checking radiator fan

[95magna]

how would i go about checking my radiator fan is working properly!

i havent had any overheating problems but i dont recall the fan coming on since i had the bike,havent really been riding in real hot weather either,or for a extended period of time.

how often does your fan come on?
and at what temperature should the the thing come on?

what would be the correct way run 12v to the fan direct for starters just to see if it works?
thermostat,how would i check that
sensors also
just to make sure its all working like it should

thanks in advance

[Chad in Michigan]

my fan doesn't come on very often either, usually on very hot days or sitting at idle for extended periods. you can test the fan by taking the wire off of the temp sensor and grounding the wire against the side of the temp sensor (which is ground). i'm pretty sure your key has to be on. the +12v is already there to the fan. when the temp sensor opens at the correct temp (not sure what it is) the wire is grounded and completes the circuit. by the way, the temp sensor is located right near the horn, mounted in the radiator.

[lragan]

In the 2.5 years I have ridden my '96, the fan has come on exactly once.  After a long stretch at highway speed, stopped at a very long light (I don't think the magnetic sensor loop responded to Maggie's presence) it came on for about 45 seconds.

So I know it worked once

[95magna]

well i tried the sensor wire to ground thing and the fan did come on,so i guess the fan does work
i guess i just need to do more riding

my fan doesn't come on very often either, usually on very hot days or sitting at idle for extended periods. you can test the fan by taking the wire off of the temp sensor and grounding the wire against the side of the temp sensor (which is ground). i'm pretty sure your key has to be on. the +12v is already there to the fan. when the temp sensor opens at the correct temp (not sure what it is) the wire is grounded and completes the circuit. by the way, the temp sensor is located right near the horn, mounted in the radiator.

[rjb/AKA Bob Barram]

It does take some warmer weather to get the fan to come on. Give it a  month or so....