Guys - I've got a restored clutch fan on my '69 350 w/ stock water pump, aluminum pulleys and stock shroud. The problem is that the fan blades just barely go into the shroud (0.5"). I need another 1.5" at least to get the fan half-in-half-out of the shroud. I've never seen a spacer used with a clutch fan. Is this even safe? I have no idea what the clutch fan I'm using came out of. What are my options, get a new clutch with a longer shaft? I hate to spend the money when the one I have is in great shape. Please offer some advice.

Ysyally the clutch shaft is made to the length you need for the application. I don't see a problem with using a spacer though. Would look kind of different, but should work just fine.

I dont think its recommended to use a spacer with a clutch. If you have the correct waterpump, shroud and clutch you shouldnt need a spacer.

You might have a short pump on car the difference between a short and long on a small block is 1 3/8.

There's also a length difference in the shaft on the clutch between the one used for SB and the one for BB (BB is shorter). :thumbsup:

if the engine doesn't overheat, other than the cosmetics of the fan not being 50/50, I don't see a problem. almost all literature I've researched says "NO SPACER" with a clutch fan. that poses a really good question. if the spacer is properly sized and indexed on the water pump hub, why would it matter ?? shock-load on the longer mounting bolts when the clutch engages, perhaps ?? I dunno,, rotating mass can do some strange things sometimes, and a out of control fanblade can do some serious damage.

Thanks for the info guys. I remember now that I had to use a short water pump to get my aluminum pulleys to line up. The things we forget................ I guess I'll just go get a new clutch made for short water pump.