1967-1969 Camaro/Firebird LS and LT Swap Radiator for Manual Transmission
When installing an LS or LT engine into a 1967-1969 Camaro or Firebird manual transmission chassis, this radiator matches factory F-Body frame rails and clears the shift linkage without adapters to ensure proper coolant flow. Its TIG welded aluminum tanks resist heat cycles and vibration while an optimized tube and fin core channels coolant evenly and accelerates heat rejection under extended or spirited driving. Installation remains straightforward since inlet and outlet ports align with original shifter positions, preserving engine bay layout and allowing direct hose connections for consistent performance. Builders can choose a bare aluminum finish for peak thermal conduction or an epoxy coating to guard against corrosion in demanding conditions, accommodating both street and track use.
Precision TIG Welded Aluminum Construction
The radiator's tanks and core are crafted from premium aluminum and joined with TIG welding, a process renowned for creating exceptionally clean and strong metal bonds. This welding method produces uniform seams that withstand repeated heat cycles and engine vibrations, reducing the risk of fatigue cracks or leaks during spirited driving or prolonged idling. The aluminum assembly delivers a lightweight yet rigid structure that shifts weight away from the front of the chassis, improving the balance of your Camaro or Firebird after an LS or LT engine swap. Uniform weld beads along each joint ensure consistent coolant containment under pressure, maintaining system integrity over many seasons of use. By fabricating every unit in the USA, quality control standards remain rigorous, giving builders confidence in long lasting performance.
Engineered Tube and Fin Core for Efficient Heat Rejection
At the heart of this radiator lies an optimized tube and fin core that meets the elevated thermal demands of modern LS and LT powerplants. Coolant flows through broad passages designed to channel fluid evenly, preventing hotspots that can lead to detonation under heavy throttle. Meanwhile, densely spaced aluminum fins maximize the surface area exposed to incoming air, accelerating heat exchange and ensuring stable operating temperatures on both street and track. The uniform fin density also promotes steady airflow through the original frame rails, preserving factory aerodynamics and reducing pressure drop across the cooling system. This balanced design delivers rapid heat rejection without compromising the familiar engine bay layout.
Seamless Fitment with Factory Frame Rails and Shifter Linkage Clearance
This radiator is engineered to align precisely with the original frame rails of 1967 to 1969 Camaro and Firebird models equipped with a manual transmission. Inlet and outlet ports are located to avoid interference with the stock shifter linkage, enabling direct hose connections without the need for adapter plates or custom brackets. Installers can bolt the unit into factory mounting points and reuse standard hardware, eliminating fabrication time and preserving the classic engine bay appearance. By matching the exact chassis dimensions, the component safeguards the integrity of the firewall and radiator support, allowing builders to maintain proper hood clearance and airflow paths. This plug and play approach speeds up installation while delivering reliable coolant flow from day one.
Bare Aluminum and Epoxy Coating Options for Durability and Cooling
Builders can select a natural bare aluminum finish for superior thermal conduction and quick visual inspection of the core, or opt for a black epoxy coating to guard against corrosion in harsh environments. The bare surface promotes maximum heat transfer, while the epoxy layer acts as a barrier against road salt, moisture, and debris, extending service intervals and reducing maintenance concerns. Both finishes are fully compatible with standard coolant formulas and uphold consistent performance during extended street runs or track sessions. The choice of surface treatment lets owners tailor the look and longevity of their radiator to meet individual driving habits and aesthetic preferences. By offering two factory applied options, the radiator adapts to both show car builds and dedicated performance machines.
For the same radiator but with fans, see our 1967-1969 Camaro/Firebird Radiator (Manual Transmission) with Fans. MuscleRods precision fit and durable construction ensure reliable cooling for your LS or LT swap.