17.5" Radiator for LS and LT Engine Swaps on 1964-1967 Pontiac GTO
Fitting an LS or LT powerplant into a 1964 through 1967 Pontiac GTO A Body with an automatic transmission demands a radiator that aligns precisely with the factory core height and port layout. This 17.5 inch unit preserves the original coolant routing and mounting locations to avoid trimming hoses or shifting shrouds. Its aluminum construction delivers reliable heat rejection and corrosion resistance while lowering front weight for stable temperatures in spirited runs and stop and go traffic. Installers keep all stock hoses, brackets and shroud attachments intact, maintaining correct engine placement and driveline geometry without extra work.
Precise Core Height for Direct Fit Installation
Matching the factory 17.5 inch core height ensures that installers can reuse stock hoses brackets and shrouds without alteration. This exact fit maintains the original coolant routing and port alignment so engine placement and driveline geometry remain unchanged. By avoiding hose trimming or bracket shifts the process is faster and preserves the classic under hood layout. Precision in core height also prevents trapped air pockets that can lead to hot spots and reduced circulation. The result is reliable cooling performance from the moment of start up.
Aluminum Construction for Superior Heat Rejection and Weight Savings
Constructed entirely from high quality aluminum this radiator leverages the metal's excellent thermal conductivity to expel heat quickly from the coolant. The internal fin and tube configuration maximizes surface area for heat exchange delivering stable temperatures under spirited driving or stop and go traffic. Aluminum's low density reduces weight at the front of the vehicle improving balance and steering feel without compromising strength. Its natural resistance to corrosion helps prevent scale build up in the core and extends service intervals. Together these factors offer consistent cooling in daily street use or more demanding conditions.
Coating Choices That Enhance Durability and Aesthetics
Owners can select a bare aluminum finish to maximize direct heat transfer or opt for a black epoxy layer that protects against moisture and road debris. The untreated metal surface allows ambient air to contact the coolant chamber directly for maximum efficiency. The epoxy option provides a barrier that guards against pitting and oxidation in humid or salted environments with minimal impact on heat rejection. Uniform application and careful curing ensure the coating adheres firmly and resists peeling over time. The black finish also adds a refined look under the hood complementing painted or polished engine components.
Quality Manufacturing Standards for Reliable Fit Across Applications
Each radiator is fabricated in the United States under strict quality protocols to deliver consistent dimensions and performance. In process inspections verify core height tolerance tank integrity and weld strength before final assembly. Local production allows precise material sourcing and rapid design validation to eliminate the dimensional variances common in global supply chains. This oversight ensures that restorations or modern swaps using LS or LT engines in a 1964 to 1967 Pontiac GTO A Body fit perfectly without additional modification. Comprehensive technical documentation and support further streamline the installation for professional shops and home builders alike.
For the same radiator but with fans see our 1964-1967 GTO Radiator 17.5" Tall (Automatic Transmission) with Fans. This option ensures stable coolant temperatures in all driving conditions.