1959-1964 Chevy Impala B-Body Radiator for LS and LT Engine Swaps
When installing a modern LS or LT engine behind an automatic transmission in a classic Impala, managing heat effectively becomes essential and this 1959-1964 Impala Radiator (Auto Trans) answers that challenge without extra fabrication. Its full aluminum core combined with TIG welded tanks channels heat rapidly away from both engine and gearbox. With inlet and outlet ports matching the original locations, it secures to factory support points and accepts stock cooler lines so no adapters or brackets are required. Owners benefit from consistent coolant flow under varied driving conditions while avoiding common fitment headaches that arise in B-Body engine swaps.
Precision TIG Welded Aluminum Assembly
The radiator features TIG welded aluminum tanks and core that deliver exceptional seam integrity under constant vibration and heat cycles. By using a tungsten electrode and inert gas shield, each joint is fused with precise penetration and minimal porosity, greatly reducing the risk of coolant leaks in LS or LT swaps. This clean welding process produces smooth beads that need little finishing, enabling a consistent internal passage for coolant flow. Weld areas resist cracking or fatigue when the engine is under sustained load or towing heavy trailers. The result is a durable, leakproof unit that maintains reliable performance from daily driving to spirited highway bursts.
Optimized Core Design for Rapid Heat Rejection
At its heart lies a full aluminum tube and fin core engineered for quick heat transfer and low mass. Thin walled tubes carry warmed coolant into a dense fin array where incoming air strips heat efficiently, preventing hotspots when the Impala is driven at high output. Carefully balanced fin density ensures coolant velocity remains high without overloading the water pump, preserving proper flow rates and reducing temperature spikes. The reduced weight of the aluminum core lightens the front end, providing better steering response and overall vehicle balance. Together, these features keep engine temperatures within safe limits and protect critical components from heat related wear.
Protective Bare or Epoxy Coating Options
Builders can choose between a raw aluminum finish that highlights clean weld lines or a black epoxy coating that fortifies against corrosion and road debris. The bare version offers a period correct look, allowing polished surfaces to catch light and match other engine bay hardware. Alternatively, the epoxy option is oven cured at precise temperatures to ensure strong adhesion and resistance to chipping or peeling. Both finishes preserve the core's cooling performance, so styling does not compromise heat rejection. This flexibility lets owners tailor the appearance of their engine compartment while safeguarding the radiator against harsh driving conditions.
Direct Fit Mounting for Impala B Body Frames
Designed for a straight in installation on 1959 through 1964 Impala B Body frames, the radiator aligns with factory support points and accepts original transmission cooler lines without adapters. This plug and play approach eliminates the need for custom brackets or tubing, cutting down on fabrication time and avoiding damage to the core support. Retaining stock mounting locations preserves chassis integrity and helps maintain resale value by avoiding frame alterations. Installers can focus on wiring and plumbing instead of metalwork, speeding up project completion. The result is a seamless fit that delivers consistent coolant circulation under varied driving conditions.
Trust in the robust cooling performance and precise fit of this radiator. For the same radiator but with fans see our 1959-1964 Impala Radiator (Automatic Transmission) with Fans.