1955-1957 Chevy 150/210/Bel Air/Delray Radiator for LS and LT Engine Swaps
When you are fitting an LS or LT motor into a TriFive Chevy chassis, the 1955-1957 Chevy Radiator (Manual Trans) ensures consistent cooling under demanding driving or towing conditions. Crafted with a full aluminum tube and fin core and TIG welded tanks, it delivers rapid heat rejection and resists corrosion from chassis flex or harsh road salts. Equipped with a direct fit design that matches inlet, outlet and mounting points for Chevy 150, 210, Bel Air and Delray bodies, this radiator installs without cutting or brackets while maintaining proper coolant flow under spirited road or track use. Every weld is inspected for airtight integrity, preventing leaks under high pressure and temperature cycles associated with manual transmission applications.
Durable TIG Welding for Leak Free Operation
The manual TIG welding process applied to every tank and core seam creates a consistently strong bond in high quality aluminum, ensuring the joints resist cracking under repeated temperature changes. By fusing each plate and header with uniform penetration depth, this construction removes potential leak paths and maintains airtight integrity even under elevated coolant pressures found in manual transmission setups. Careful inspection of every weld safeguards against porosity and micro‐cracks, reducing downtime for repairs and giving builders confidence in daily use or spirited drives. This precision fabrication approach contributes directly to reliable cooling performance and extended service intervals.
Aluminum Tube and Fin Core Enabling Rapid Heat Dissipation
The full aluminum tube and fin core is engineered to maximize thermal conductivity while minimizing weight, making it ideal for LS and LT engine swaps that demand efficient cooling under load. Coolant flows through narrow, closely spaced tubes, transferring heat to the attached fins where incoming air extracts it swiftly to maintain stable engine temperatures. This layout prevents localized hot spots that can lead to detonation or accelerated wear, whether towing a trailer or pushing the limits on a back road. The combination of material choice and core design delivers consistent performance across varied driving conditions.
Precision Fitment for Manual Transmission TriFive Chassis
Designed specifically for 1955-1957 Chevy 150, 210, Bel Air, and Delray bodies with manual transmissions, this radiator matches factory inlet, outlet, and mounting positions without the need for modifications. Installers can reuse original frame rails and support brackets, saving time and preserving chassis integrity. Exact alignment of hose connections and mounting brackets eliminates the risk of interference with steering linkages or fan shrouds, ensuring proper coolant routing and airflow. The result is a smooth installation process that maintains original geometry and reduces trial-and-error adjustments.
Coating Selections for Lasting Corrosion Defense
Choose between a natural bare aluminum finish or a resilient black epoxy coating to suit both aesthetic goals and environmental demands. Bare aluminum showcases the core's metallic brilliance and resists oxidation under normal driving, while the epoxy layer offers enhanced protection against road salt, moisture, and grime in harsher climates. Both coatings preserve the radiator's structural integrity and ease of cleaning, ensuring the cooling system remains effective over the long haul. This flexibility allows restorers and performance enthusiasts alike to balance period-correct style with practical durability.
For the same radiator but with fan, see our 1955-1957 Chevy Radiator (Manual Transmission) with Fan. Its precise fit and robust core design ensure reliable cooling performance.