A-C/Electric-fan/Engine-draw... Relationship?

[Crist Clapper]

FYI: My XJ is new to me.

When the A-C (compressor?) kicks-in...There is excessive drain to the engine(RPM's). Then it seems the electric-fan starts at the same time the A-C kicks-in.

Is this normal? Common? Is there a fix?

[XJ Wheeler]

It is the proper function for your system. The electric/auxiliary fan will come on for two things, if functioning correctly. (1) The vehicle reaches 218-220° coolant temperature. (2) The A/C or defrost is turned on. The reason for the latter is because, as you noticed, the compressor adds strain to the motor. The fan turns on to combat a rise in temperature, due to said added strain, to help out the already insufficient cooling systems these jeeps were equipped with.

Sent via messenger pigeon - i talk, he types.

[Crist Clapper]

It's the... I may not like the answer, but comforting knowing I'm not alone! :D Thanks!