Radiator for LS and LT Engine Swap in 1958 Chevy Impala/Bel Air/Delray B-Body
If you are installing an LS or LT mill into a 1958 Chevy Impala, Bel Air or Delray B Body the 1973-1974 Nova Radiator (Manual Trans) with Fan solves the cooling mismatch and fitment headaches. With a full TIG welded aluminum core and factory aligned mounts this design drops into the stock frame rails without cutting or custom brackets. A single fan bolted directly to the core delivers consistent airflow through the fins during stop and go driving or spirited runs. These corrosion resistant tubes and a lightweight profile hold steady coolant temperatures to safeguard engine components mile after mile.
Precision TIG Welding for Reliable Core Strength
The tanks and fins of this radiator are joined through tungsten inert gas welding, a process that fuses each section of high quality aluminum with minimal heat distortion. By creating uniform, porosity-free seams, TIG welding eliminates weak spots where leaks or cracks could form under repeated heating and cooling cycles. This method also preserves the original grain structure of the metal, ensuring the core flexes and vibrates in harmony with the LS or LT engine's output without compromising integrity. Every weld is subjected to visual and pressure testing, confirming that the assembly can sustain constant coolant flow and maintain steady temperatures mile after mile. The result is a robust core that resists fatigue and keeps heat rejection performance at peak levels throughout demanding driving conditions.
Dual Fan Arrangement Maximizes Effective Cooling
Equipped with two high-capacity fans bolted directly to the front of the core, the design forces air evenly through the full fin pack, preventing temperature spikes in any single area. These fans operate in unison to keep coolant temperatures in check whether you are idling at traffic lights or pushing the throttle on winding back roads. By covering the entire surface, the system avoids localized hot spots that can stress head gaskets, hoses, and radiator tubes. Direct fan mounting also reduces noise and vibration compared with remote shrouds, while eliminating the need for custom brackets or ducting. This balanced air delivery ensures the engine stays within its optimal thermal range, preserving both power output and component longevity.
Versatile Coating Options for Corrosion Defense and Visual Integration
Choose the classic bare aluminum finish if you prefer the natural texture and the ability to develop a unique patina over time. Alternatively, select the black epoxy coating to add a durable protective barrier against road salt, moisture, and chemicals encountered during winter drives or coastal excursions. The epoxy is applied under controlled conditions and baked to bond tightly with the aluminum surface, ensuring full coverage and long-lasting corrosion resistance. Each radiator undergoes a final quality check to verify coating uniformity and adherence to specifications. This flexibility lets you match your engine bay aesthetic without compromising the radiator's core performance or durability.
Direct Fitment to 1958 Chevy B Body Frames Streamlines Installation
Engineered specifically for the 1958 Impala, Bel Air, and Delray B body chassis, this radiator drops into place using the factory mounting points without any frame modification or custom brackets. Built-in supports ensure correct clearance from the hood latch crossmember and fan shroud area, preventing unwanted contact and vibration. By aligning precisely with the original holes in the frame rails, the radiator maintains proper routing for coolant hoses and retains the factory geometry that optimizes flow. This design reduces installation time, avoids guesswork, and delivers a secure, rattle-free fit straight out of the box. The seamless integration means you can focus on other aspects of your LS or LT swap while knowing the cooling system is engineered for perfect compatibility.
Count on a precise fit throughout your swap. To get the same radiator but without fans, consider our 1958 Impala Radiator (Automatic Transmission).