LS Swap Radiator with Fans for 1970-1981 Pontiac Firebird Manual Trans
Installing an LS engine into a 1970-1981 Firebird F-Body manual chassis often reveals cooling challenges in stop and go traffic and spirited drives so the 1970-1981 Firebird Radiator (Manual Trans) with Fans is engineered to maintain stable coolant temperatures without any chassis modifications. Featuring a TIG welded aluminum core and fully welded tanks this assembly leverages rapid heat conduction and a lightweight profile for efficient heat rejection. Designed to use factory mounting points the unit secures in minutes and the fans engage automatically as coolant temperature rises to provide consistent airflow through the core. Built in the USA this radiator delivers consistent performance and long term reliability for daily driving or track sessions.
Precision TIG Welded Aluminum Core and Tanks
The radiator uses a fully TIG welded core and tanks crafted from high quality aluminum. TIG welding produces uniform joints that resist vibration and fatigue under repeated heat cycles, preserving seal integrity and core flatness. Aluminum offers rapid heat conduction which speeds heat rejection when the engine is under load, while its lighter weight reduces front end mass to maintain handling response in the F-Body chassis. Each unit is built in the United States, ensuring tight tolerances and quality control at every stage.
Dual Electric Fan System for Consistent Airflow
Two high output electric fans are fitted on the radiator to maintain steady airflow through the core in stop and go traffic and on highway runs. The fans engage automatically as coolant temperature rises, preventing hot spots in the cooling passages and reducing stress on seals and gaskets. By balancing air delivery across the full core face, this system keeps coolant in the optimal range during spirited driving and track work. This precise thermal management is critical when the LS powerband generates more heat than the original cooling setup could handle.
Coating Options to Match Style and Resist Corrosion
Owners can select a raw aluminum finish that naturally forms a protective oxide film over time or a black epoxy layer that bonds firmly to tank and core surfaces. The epoxy finish adds a tough barrier against moisture, road salts and chemicals without obscuring the crisp weld lines. Both coating options undergo a controlled application process that guarantees even coverage and strong adhesion. Selecting the finish can enhance the engine bay appearance while delivering reliable protection under varied climates and driving conditions.
Direct Fit Factory Mounting Simplifies Installation
This radiator is engineered to drop into the original mounting locations of the 1970 to 1981 Firebird manual transmission chassis. No cutting of braces or custom brackets is required, so labor costs and installation time are minimized. Detailed guidance covers alignment with the transmission housing and fan wiring, making it straightforward for professional shops and enthusiastic do it yourself builders. The bolt pattern matches factory holes, and pre fitted mounting plates ensure correct core placement without stress on the chassis rails.
Trust this MuscleRods radiator to maintain stable coolant temperatures under all driving conditions. For the same radiator but without fans see our 1970-1981 Firebird Radiator (Manual Transmission).