Paper Towel Shredded by Fan - HELP!

[vesnyder]

Pulled a real boner - wiping off my motor with a paper towel while it was running and wap - the fan grabs the paper towel and rips it to shreds. Not literally shreds but I am pretty sure it sucked in a few small pieces in. Was able to reconstruct most of the towel but was wondering if a few shreds got sucked in how dangerous it can be? Should I tear the fan shroud apart and clean it out or can I life with a few shreds of paper towel until the next time my alternator goes?

Thanks!

[Rick V]

I would be more worried about the paper towel causing a fire. They do have a fairly low flash point.
How much got sucked in? Enough may cause some heating issues.

[Brad394]

Be thankful it didn't take your fingers as well....those pieces would definately cause a hot spot or smell like Bar B Q for a while ( lesson 1 from grade 9 shop class.... )

If you can get under the car use some compressed air and blow back throught the motor, if your lucky the pieces will come back towards the fan so you can grab them.

B

[Formerly Steve Wilkinson]

Also be thankful you weren't wearing a necktie. That fan is a disaster if the engine is running and anybody is too casual around it.

[Laneco]

Long hair becomes short hair very quickly around the fan... Horrendous odor when the hair gets on the hot engine.

It hurts too.

angela

[Canada Kev]

Speaking from experience...?