1982-1992 F-Body LS Radiator for Manual Transmission Camaro and Firebird
When installing the 1982 to 1992 F Body LS Radiator (Manual Trans) in a Camaro or Firebird, maintaining stable engine temperatures under manual transmission load is effortless thanks to its direct bolt in construction. Featuring a TIG welded aluminum core and tanks, the radiator resists corrosion while absorbing repeated heat cycles without seal fatigue. Inlet and outlet ports align with OE hose lines, and side rails match factory studs to eliminate filler brackets or cutting. Together, these features deliver consistent coolant control for any LS swap build requiring stock clearance and reliable performance.
Precision TIG Welded Aluminum Assembly
TIG welding is employed throughout the tanks and core panels to produce a seamless joint that holds up under repeated temperature cycles and vibrational load from an LS engine. This process yields consistent weld beads that resist fatigue and prevent coolant leaks even during spirited acceleration or prolonged use. Using premium grade aluminum for both the core and tanks ensures durability without adding unnecessary weight, helping to maintain integrity at the factory mounting points. The rigidity provided by TIG welds supports stable coolant pressure and minimizes the formation of hot spots when the engine is under load. Overall, this assembly method results in a dependable unit built to endure demanding operating conditions.
Dense Fin Core Design for Rapid Heat Rejection
The radiator's core features a tightly packed array of fins that maximizes the surface area exposed to incoming air for efficient heat transfer. Conductive aluminum tubes carry hot coolant from the engine into the fin pack, where the dense arrangement promotes rapid dissipation of thermal energy. This design strategy keeps temperature swings to a minimum in stop and go traffic as well as sustained highway cruising. By optimizing the balance between fin thickness and spacing, the radiator achieves consistent coolant flow while avoiding airflow restriction. In practice, this results in stable engine temperatures across a wide range of driving conditions.
Bare Aluminum and Epoxy Finish Options
Customers may choose between a classic bare aluminum finish that naturally forms a protective oxide layer and a black epoxy coating for extra chemical resistance. The bare surface creates an enduring barrier against corrosion with no need for additional treatments, while the epoxy option adds a hard shell that resists road salts and debris. Both finishes are applied after the tanks and core are welded, ensuring full coverage across all surfaces including weld seams. This allows the radiator to maintain its integrity and appearance through years of service. Routine coolant care further supports the longevity of these protective layers.
Direct Fit Installation for 1982 to 1992 F Body Applications
This radiator is engineered to install directly into 1982 to 1992 Camaro and Firebird manual transmission models without modification. Inlet and outlet ports line up precisely with factory hose connections to prevent kinks and maintain smooth coolant flow. The side rails match original mounting studs, eliminating the need for filler brackets or cutting into the frame. Maintaining the stock engine bay clearance ensures that associated components such as fan shrouds and shims fit as intended. Whether you are a professional installer or a hands-on enthusiast, this direct fit design reduces installation time while preserving the vehicle's factory appearance.
For the same radiator but with fans, consider our 1982-1992 Camaro/Firebird Radiator (Manual Transmission) with Fans. Count on consistent temperature control for your LS swap project.