Radiator for LS and LT Swap in 1955-1957 Chevy TriFive (150/210/Bel Air/Delray) Manual Trans
Anyone swapping an LS or LT engine into a TriFive Chevy from 1955 to 1957 with a manual gearbox knows that factory cooling often proves inadequate and this radiator tackles that shortfall with a focus on sustained thermal control. It features a full aluminum tube and fin core and all aluminum tanks joined by TIG welds that stand up to chassis flex road salt and prolonged heat cycles. Its direct fit design aligns inlet and outlet locations on 150 210 Bel Air and Delray bodies so installers can preserve original frame rails without modifying mounting points. Every weld undergoes air pressure testing to guarantee airtight integrity under manual transmission pressures and consistent performance on road or track.
Precision TIG Welding For Leak Prevention
The radiator tanks and core joints are assembled using 100 percent TIG welding in a controlled environment, creating uniform fusion that seals microscopic gaps and prevents coolant loss under pressure. This method delivers deeper metal penetration compared to other processes, which helps the aluminum layers hold up against repeated heating and cooling cycles common in manual transmission applications. After welding, each assembly undergoes rigorous air pressure testing to detect any porosity or fine cracks, ensuring airtight integrity before it leaves the factory. The attention to welding quality reduces the risk of future repairs and builds confidence for daily driving or spirited use.
Quality Aluminum Tube And Fin Core Maximizing Heat Rejection
Designed with a full aluminum tube and fin core, this radiator offers rapid heat transfer while keeping weight to a minimum, a vital factor when fitting LS or LT engines into a TriFive chassis. Coolant flows through closely spaced tubes that are backed by dense fin arrays, allowing maximum contact area for efficient thermal exchange with ambient air. This core configuration prevents hot spots that could lead to engine knock or excessive wear during towing or track days. By optimizing tube wall thickness and fin density, the design sustains consistent coolant temperature under a variety of loads and driving styles.
Direct Fit Design For 1955-1957 TriFive Manual Models
The radiator is engineered to match factory inlet and outlet locations as well as original mounting points on Chevy 150, 210, Bel Air and Delray bodies from 1955 to 1957, allowing installation without cutting frame rails or fabricating brackets. This direct fit approach preserves factory chassis geometry and support hardware, cutting installation time and complexity. Hose connections line up precisely to avoid interference with steering linkages or fan shroud placement, while maintaining proper coolant flow dynamics. The result is a seamless integration that retains period correct appearance and delivers reliable performance.
Bare Aluminum Or Black Epoxy Coating For Corrosion Protection
Choose between a natural aluminum finish that resists oxidation for a bright metallic look or a black epoxy layer for added defense against road salt, moisture and grime in harsh climates. The bare surface naturally repels corrosion under normal conditions and simplifies visual inspections, while the epoxy coating acts as a barrier to extend core life where winter chemicals or salt spray are common. Both options support straightforward cleaning and help maintain resale value by protecting structural integrity and appearance. This choice ensures the radiator endures varied environmental challenges without sacrificing performance.
This radiator offers the precision and durability required for LS or LT swaps while preserving factory fit. For the same radiator but with fan, see our 1955-1957 Chevy Radiator (Manual Transmission) with Fan.