LS and LT Radiator for 1973-1974 Chevy Nova and Pontiac Ventura X-Body Swaps
If you are installing an LS or LT engine into a 1973 or 1974 Chevy Nova or Pontiac Ventura X Body chassis, the 1984 to 1989 Corvette Radiator (Auto and Manual Trans) provides a ready to install cooling solution that maintains stable coolant temperatures without extra brackets. Its slim single fan package draws minimal current from the charging system while directing airflow evenly through the aluminum core for consistent heat rejection under both street and track conditions. Constructed from corrosion resistant alloy, the radiator sheds heat quickly, cuts weight compared to stock steel cores and bolts directly to factory hose connections on the X Body frame rails for a clean installation.
Optimized Slim Fan Integration for Consistent Airflow
The single high-performance fan installed on this radiator draws minimal amperage, preserving electrical capacity for starter and lighting functions during spirited driving or prolonged idling. Its compact fan profile fits neatly within the space between the frame rails and engine accessories, eliminating clearance conflicts without resorting to custom shrouds or spacers. By directing airflow uniformly through the full width of the aluminum core, the fan maintains stable coolant temperatures across varying speeds and engine loads. This focused airflow scheme ensures that even under track stress or heavy traffic, heat rejection remains balanced from top to bottom of the core. Overall, the combination of precise fan sizing and efficient motor design provides reliable cooling without taxing the charging system.
Aluminum Construction Promoting Rapid Heat Transfer
Crafted entirely from premium aluminum, both the core and tanks take full advantage of the metal's superior thermal conductivity to shed heat quickly into passing air. Aluminum's natural resistance to corrosion and pitting in humid or road salt environments ensures that coolant passages remain clear over years of service, reducing the need for flushing or patch repairs. The lightweight assembly contributes to improved throttle response and front-end balance, allowing acceleration and handling to feel more immediate and controlled. Thanks to the unified metal assembly, heat moves efficiently from coolant to fins, supporting faster recovery when idling or climbing steep grades. These characteristics work together to keep LS and LT powerplants operating within safe temperature thresholds under demanding conditions.
Plug-and-Play Installation on 1973–1974 X Body Frame Rails
Engineered to match the original mounting geometry of the 1973–1974 Chevy Nova and Pontiac Ventura chassis, this radiator installs directly into existing brackets with no additional hardware required. Factory hose connections align perfectly with the radiator's inlet and outlet ports, allowing coolant and transmission lines to follow the natural contours of the frame rails without kinks or sharp bends. Precision-machined mounting tabs deliver a rock-solid interface that resists movement and prevents leaks, even when subjected to vibration on rough roads. By eliminating custom brackets or adapters, the direct-fit design reduces installation time and minimizes the risk of errors during a swap. Whether handled by a seasoned technician or a dedicated DIY enthusiast, the result is a clean underhood layout and dependable coolant flow.
Customizable Corrosion Protection with Coating Options
Builders can choose the naturally bright finish of bare aluminum or opt for a black epoxy coating that adds an extra layer of defense against oxidation and road debris. The black epoxy is applied in a precision spray process that maintains factory tolerances at seams, inlet ports, and mounting surfaces, ensuring no impact on coolant seal integrity. Both finishes allow unimpeded thermal transfer, so there is no sacrifice in cooling performance regardless of appearance preference. The protective coating reduces maintenance intervals by minimizing surface corrosion, which can otherwise lead to onboard cooler clogging and reduced efficiency. This flexibility lets restorers and customizers match the radiator's aesthetic to their vehicle’s style while preserving reliable heat rejection over many seasons.
Count on MuscleRods for reliable cooling solutions crafted for lasting performance. For the same radiator but without fans consider our 1973-1974 Nova Radiator (Automatic Transmission).