Can I drive on the highway without a condenser fan?

[atikovi]

2003 Honda Insight. LSS the condenser fan motor is drawing too much current and blowing the fuse that also feeds the compressor clutch. New parts not available and I have to go on a 2,000 mile round trip drive soon. Can it be driven with the fan disconnected if I only use the a/c above say 50 mph? I can find a used replacement or fab up a universal fan later when I have more time.

[bohica2xo]

Wow. A ZE1 still on the road. How many miles do you have on it?

I don't know what Honda used for a compressor on that car, but given the low production numbers and age of the car I think I would treat the rest of the system gently. Since you have no way to watch the high side pressure while driving I think I would just roll the window down.

Take Honda's hint with the blown fuse and fix it right.

[JohnHere]

On a 20-year-old vehicle, there might be other things wrong with the system than just the fan. Rather than risk no A/C on a very long trip, why not visit your local car-rental agency and rent a vehicle from them? Then worry about fixing the '03 Honda Insight when you return.

[tbirdtbird]

Excellent idea, John. Could save the lad a lot of walking
Also, without a condenser fan, your pressures will skyrocket at stop lights and stop signs, and in traffic. You are gonna trigger the HPCO or blow a hose.
You've been here before, you already knew the answer

[atikovi]

On a 20-year-old vehicle, there might be other things wrong with the system than just the fan. Rather than risk no A/C on a very long trip, why not visit your local car-rental agency and rent a vehicle from them? Then worry about fixing the '03 Honda Insight when you return.

That defeats the whole purpose of the car. I'm driving to pick up a part and expect to spend around $100 on gas. If I rent something, the gas bill probably doubles, plus the cost of the rental, and I'm likely at $350. Might as well ship it.

[atikovi]

Excellent idea, John. Could save the lad a lot of walking
Also, without a condenser fan, your pressures will skyrocket at stop lights and stop signs, and in traffic. You are gonna trigger the HPCO or blow a hose.
You've been here before, you already knew the answer

I did post,

Can it be driven with the fan disconnected if I only use the a/c above say 50 mph? I can find a used replacement or fab up a universal fan later when I have more time.

[tbirdtbird]

$100 on gas for a 2K mile trip.....remarkable

[Cusser]

I assume that the part you wish to drive 2K miles for is NOT for the fan for the 2003 Honda???

By the way: folks do add aftermarket fans to their vehicles, I'm not sure why a mechanic or you couldn't add a complete new fan and control to your Honda.

[atikovi]

Correct. And I'd rather keep it original with a used oem fan if possible instead of making something fit.

[JohnHere]

Okay...renting a vehicle is out of the question, and originality is important in this instance. But a used OEM fan from a salvage yard or auction site can be "iffy" as well.

Perhaps check around for a reproduction of the original fan. Everything will line up (at least it should), it'll look original, and it'll be a completely new unit, giving you peace of mind.