Abstract: A fluid coupling device is disclosed in which flow of fluid from a reservoir chamber (35) into a fluid operating chamber (33) is controlled by a valve member (41), rotatable with a valve shaft (39). Rotation of the valve shaft (39) is normally controlled, in response to variations in ambient air temperature, by means of a bimetal coil (45), In accordance with the invention, a normally fixed outer tab (75) of the bimetal coil is attached to an output plunger (85) of an electromagnetic actuator (83). As a result, the operating condition of the fan drive can be changed between a disengaged condition and an engaged condition, in response to variations in a predetermined condition (73), other than ambient air temperature.

Abstract: A fan and fan drive assembly (11) is disclosed of the type including a fan drive (13) and a fan assembly (15). The fan drive (13) includes a body member (21) and a cover member (23), one of the members comprising a die-cast member and including a connecting portion (65; 165; 201) having a terminal portion (67, 69; 102; 267, 269). The fan (15) comprises a one-piece molded plastic member, and during the molding step, whichever of the body and cover defines the connecting portion is disposed within the molding die (M). The terminal portion of the connecting portion is disposed within a hub cavity (H), so that, when the moldable plastic material is injected into the hub cavity, it forms the fan hub (61) about, and rigidly connected to the terminal portion of the connecting portion.