So, I took off the fan today and took it for a drive and I was surprised that it didn't overheat a bit. The temp needle goes up to middle just like before but much sooner now.
The engine is a lot quiter at startup and idle. I drove about 1 miles uphill after reaching normal temp, in 2nd position on shifter and about 5 miles more on level. Pulled over and let it idle, checked the engine, no signs of overheat. I thought i heard the electric fans come on but when i popped the hood they were off.
Left the clutch on it, just took the plastic blade unit off. Your results may vary.