LS and LT Radiator for 1959-1964 Chevy Impala Manual Trans
When swapping an LS or LT powerplant into a 1959 to 1964 Chevy Impala B Body fitted with a manual transmission, maintaining stable coolant temperature is critical to reliability. This 1959 through 1964 Impala Radiator (Manual Trans) features fully TIG welded aluminum tanks and a precision core that align with original frame mounts for a direct fit. It delivers balanced fin density and optimized flow passages to shed heat under towing or spirited conditions. Mounting follows factory horseshoe points to preserve belt alignment and hose clearance with no trimming required. Durable aluminum resists corrosion over time to protect your engine bay from leaks and hotspots.
Precision TIG Welded Aluminum Assembly
The tanks and core are fully TIG welded from high-grade aluminum, delivering uniform strength across every joint. This welding process fuses material without rivets or adhesives, eliminating common leak paths and potential corrosion spots. The seamless seams resist vibration and thermal cycling, ensuring the structure maintains integrity under pressure. Aluminum's low mass also aids rapid temperature response, allowing the core to adapt quickly to changes in engine heat output. The result is a durable radiator unit engineered to withstand spirited drives and towing duties alike.
Engineered Core Flow for Consistent Cooling
Balanced fin density and precision-routed flow passages ensure coolant moves smoothly through the core, shedding heat efficiently. Fin spacing has been optimized to maximize surface area without creating excessive flow restriction, so liquid transfers heat quickly as it traverses the channels. Internal flow paths distribute coolant evenly, preventing hot spots that can stress pump seals and engine parts. This carefully tuned design delivers stable temperature control during stop and go traffic or sustained high-load conditions, safeguarding engine longevity.
Factory Aligned Mounting for Quick Installation
Mount bosses are machined to match original 1959–1964 Impala frame points, allowing the radiator to drop into place with exact belt and hose clearances. This direct-fit approach removes the need for trimming, shims, or custom brackets and avoids interference with the manual transmission bellhousing. Installers benefit from reduced fitting time, fewer alignment checks, and preserved drive belt geometry. The streamlined installation process supports a straightforward engine swap and maintains reliable accessory alignment without extra modification.
Bare Aluminum and Epoxy Coating Protection
Choose between a polished bare finish or a durable black epoxy coat applied under controlled conditions. The untreated aluminum reflects radiant heat and offers a classic appearance while making it easy to spot early signs of discoloration. The epoxy layer forms a resilient barrier against moisture, road debris, and chemical exposure to defend against surface wear. Both finishes withstand repeated heating cycles and resist corrosion over time, ensuring lasting performance and appearance without impacting cooling efficiency.
This radiator delivers reliable cooling performance for LS and LT swaps under spirited driving or towing. For the same radiator but with fans see our 1959-1964 Impala Radiator (Manual Transmission) with Fans.