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I've got the program mostly written. It's very similar to the one for the BMW PWM fan. Can you get your hands on a C6/Ford PWM module and can you wire a circuit board similar to what I've show? If so, I'll post the code.
Possibly. Might take a while. Just out of curiosity, how does one program an arduino? Via one or more of the connections involved?
Possibly. Might take a while. Just out of curiosity, how does one program an arduino? Via one or more of the connections involved?
Via a built in USB port. You download the Arduino application on your PC and plug in the USB. There is an entire world of support for beginners on youtube.
Via a built in USB port. You download the Arduino application on your PC and plug in the USB. There is an entire world of support for beginners on youtube.
OK, I guess I didn't catch it in the pics early in this thread. Looks like I need me some eddicatin'!
This will be a process, but possibly a fun one....
Edit... I just saw the pic again. The black "block" on the opposite end from the camera.
Thanks again!
Is there a database of high amperage capacity PWM modules anywhere?
C6 modules aren't exactly piled up at the "previously possessed parts emporiums", and Ford Contour modules aren't much more common. I live in a rural area with few good junkyards.
On another note, if I go this route, I might put an Arduino Nano with pre-soldered pins on an expansion board with screw-type terminals. I am a ham-fisted solderer, and this will keep the screwup factor to a minimum.
Is there a database of high amperage capacity PWM modules anywhere?
C6 modules aren't exactly piled up at the "previously possessed parts emporiums", and Ford Contour modules aren't much more common. I live in a rural area with few good junkyards.
On another note, if I go this route, I might put an Arduino Nano with pre-soldered pins on an expansion board with screw-type terminals. I am a ham-fisted solderer, and this will keep the screwup factor to a minimum.
2006-2009 Ford Fusion (and Mercury Milan, 07-09 Lincoln MKZ) is the same as the C6 controller. Bring a torx bit set and score the mating connector while you are at it.
2006-2009 Ford Fusion (and Mercury Milan, 07-09 Lincoln MKZ) is the same as the C6 controller. Bring a torx bit set and score the mating connector while you are at it.
I haven't moved on this.... work has been a disaster, and as it turns out when it's 40F-50F out you don't even need a cooling fan on this thing. 300 miles on surface streets and not once has engine temp gone above 190F. It's supposed to warm up a bit this weekend, so I'll get to work on wiring this up, and charging the AC. Why charge the AC? Because when the AC pressure transducer shows an out of range value it runs the factory electric ("AC condenser") fan at max speed all the time. I pulled the relays out to solve that issue.
I'm about to post up the diagram and code. What temperature do you want your fan to start and what temp should it go to full power? May as well throw your values in there as I post it.
Speaking of operating temps, how does one "adjust" the fan activation temps? Different temp sensors?
Also, how does one include A/C activation of the fans when using Arduino NANO?
Speaking of operating temps, how does one "adjust" the fan activation temps? Different temp sensors?
Also, how does one include A/C activation of the fans when using Arduino NANO?
No, same temp sensor. Start temps as well as everything else is adjusted by a keyboard attached to a computer through a USB port to the Nano.
Those who want to PWM control fans independent of PCM or existing temp sensors and have soft start, roll up your sleeves for this DIY. Uses a separate temperature sensor controlling a C6/Ford PWM fan control module and A/C activation. You gotta build it and test it yourself. I built one and bench tested it.
Features a fan start temperature (180F in this example) , a fan full power temp (200F in example) and variable fans speed in between these two. C6/Ford PWM fan control operates at 20,000hz. so fans run quietly and have soft start.
If A/C clutch is on (or any 12 volt signal on clutch input), fans run about 1/2 speed (adjustable of course) and increase if temp increases. Temp sensor is a stainless steel tube about 3/16 inch. I would attach this somewhere on the hot side, either on the radiator hose or in the radiator fins, out of the airflow.
Here is the code. Change the stuff in the user adjustable section to your liking.
If you want the code in a copy-able format, PM me.
Oh, I forgot to mention that the temperature and PWM duty are continuously output to the USB port to help in adjusting anything or monitoring the operation.
Still iffy for me. A salvage module is the only cost-effective way to go with new ones from Rock Auto going for $133.
Wiring the Arduino NANO looks easy (especially if I use an expansion board), but the programming does not.
Again, I can get a Delta Current Control 45 amp PWM unit for $150, including wire harness. No programming needed.
diy isnt for everyone. if that code doesnt make sense to you (its well written and very simple), and you do not have the time/interest to learn it, the $150 controller is probably your best bet.
You make a VERY good point! Trying to cheap out DOES tend to over-complicate things!
Well said, and thank you Andrew!
This thread is not as much about cheap as it is about some wanting to take pride in doing things themselves on their projects. The Forced induction and hybrids threads are all about DIY to some extent. Especially in forced induction, more fans are needed that are not supported by most engine management systems.
diy isnt for everyone. if that code doesn't make sense to you (its well written and very simple), and you do not have the time/interest to learn it, the $150 controller is probably your best bet.
I've just never done any programming, so I was a bit intimidated, and maybe needlessly so. Once I read it, it made sense!
But I do agree, the DCC controller (or similar) might be my best bet.
Thank you! Input is always appreciated!
This thread is not as much about cheap as it is about some wanting to take pride in doing things themselves on their projects. The Forced induction and hybrids threads are all about DIY to some extent. Especially in forced induction, more fans are needed that are not supported by most engine management systems.
I agree with you, again! I've been a believer in, "if it is so easy you can't mess it up, go for it! Otherwise let the pros do it". Well, maybe not so extreme, but you get the point.
Your input and help is greatly appreciated. We'll see which direction this takes.....
Man, I am going to merge the AC coil fan control into the BMW fan code at some point. That's a problem solver for me.
Yes, that's the reason why I've added different variations, so folks can pick and choose parts that fit their cars. With the variety of modules in this thread, you could add an oil or transmission cooler as well. Or an extra input to tell it you're at the track and you want the temps even cooler.