How do I remove Viscous Fan on AFN engine (98 Passat 110)

[gonch1980]

Hi,
in the middle of a unscheduled timing/serpentine belt change, and am struggling to remove the viscous fan. I want to do this so I can replace the serpentine belt tensioner. Anyone got any tips?

Cheers

Fraz

[00013cave]

have you pulled the rad support forward.it's kinda tight otherwise. to remove the fan get a mirror to find the 4- 5mm head allen bolts at the front of the fan.you may have the other model[sorry but i forget which year is which] you will have to unbolt the large[ 34mm ?] nut behind the fan. BE CAREFULL it's reverse threads. i used to use a late vw timing tensioner tool to hold the hub while turning the big nut

[gonch1980]

mines different to what you are describing, i should use a special wrench with hardened 5mm ins in it, that i would use to hold the viscous fan pulley whilst i undo the 8mm Allen head bolt from behind the alternator. Just wondered how you do it without the special tool.