LS and LT Radiator for 1968-1972 Chevy Nova and 1964-1966 Buick Skylark
If you are fitting an LS or LT motor into a 1968-1972 Chevy Nova or a 1964-1966 Buick Skylark with an automatic transmission, the right radiator can make the difference between overheating and smooth operation under load. Built around a TIG welded aluminum core and tanks, the design resists corrosion while ensuring consistent coolant flow, and the matched automatic transmission ports align with factory mount points to simplify plumbing. With a lean nose weight and efficient fin layout, it helps preserve front end balance in the X-Body chassis and draws heat away quickly under sustained engine loads.
Precision TIG welded tanks and core construction
Every seam on this radiator is joined using TIG welded techniques that produce deep, consistent weld beads without gaps. This approach eliminates potential leak paths and holds up to the vibration and pressure changes common in LS and LT applications. Uniform joints resist fatigue through repeated heat cycles, so the radiator maintains integrity even under sustained engine load. Builders can rely on a coolant system backbone that minimises maintenance and stands up to demanding driving conditions.
Aluminum core design for rapid heat dissipation
The heart of this radiator is its high quality aluminum core, selected for its exceptional thermal conductivity. As coolant flows through densely arranged tubes and fins, aluminum quickly draws engine heat away and disperses it into passing air. The light weight nature of the core also cuts down nose weight on the classic X Body chassis, helping preserve the car's original balance and handling characteristics. Because aluminum resists warping under heat stress, you'll get consistent temperature control during spirited runs or highway cruising.
Coating choices offering corrosion protection and style
Customers can choose a bare aluminum finish that highlights the metal's natural sheen or opt for a durable black epoxy layer that shields against chemical and moisture exposure. The epoxy finish forms a tight barrier against road salts and environmental contaminants, extending radiator life in humid or coastal regions. Both options are applied in a controlled process to ensure uniform coverage and lasting adhesion. This flexibility lets you match your restoration theme while adding real world protection.
Direct bolt in fitment for easy installation
This radiator is engineered to bolt in using the factory mount points of 1968 to 1972 Chevy Nova and 1964 to 1966 Buick Skylark frames without any custom bracket work. Inlet and outlet ports line up precisely with automatic transmission lines, reducing the chance of plumbing errors and speeding up hose routing. The drop in design maintains correct clearances around the fan shroud and core support, so the swap remains faithful to the original layout. As a result, installers save time and keep the engine bay looking clean and uncluttered.
This radiator delivers reliable cooling for LS and LT swaps. For the same radiator but with fans see our 1968-1972 Nova and 1964-1966 Skylark Radiator (Automatic Transmission) with Fan.