LS and LT Radiator for 1988-1995 Chevy C1500 K1500 Tahoe Suburban GMC Yukon
Swapping an LS or LT V8 into a GMT400 C1500, K1500, Tahoe, Suburban or Yukon demands a cooling solution built to handle heavy loads and warmer climates, and the 1988-1995 LS Radiator 28.25" Core Width Auto Trans answers that call. Crafted around a TIG welded aluminum core and matching tanks, it resists stress cracking while speeding heat discharge from the coolant under sustained towing or spirited highway runs. Equipped with factory mounting points and precisely positioned inlet and outlet ports, installation requires no modification of frame rails or hose runs. Finished in bare aluminum or black epoxy, it maintains thermal transfer and resists corrosion for reliable gauge readings in all conditions.
Expansive Aluminum Core for Rapid Heat Transfer
The 28.25 inch wide aluminum core provides a broad surface area that accelerates the movement of heat from coolant to surrounding air, helping to stabilize temperatures even under heavy towing or hot ambient conditions. Dense fin arrays paired with optimized channel spacing ensure coolant flows uniformly, preventing localized hotspots during spirited acceleration or steep climbs. By maintaining consistent fluid velocity throughout the core, thermal spikes are reduced and engine gauge readings remain predictable. This continuous heat rejection capability is especially vital for LS and LT swaps in GMT400 chassis, where under-hood space is limited and efficient cooling can make the difference between smooth operation and overheating. The large frontal profile also promotes better airflow when paired with auxiliary or factory fans, amplifying cooling potential without adding bulk.
Precision TIG Welding for Leak Free Durability
Every seam and joint on this radiator is crafted with TIG welding, a process renowned for its clean, precise weld beads and minimal distortion of material. This level of fabrication control eliminates common crack initiation points found in lower-quality radiators, ensuring structural integrity under repeated thermal cycles and pressure variations. With straight internal passages maintained through careful fusion, flow restrictions are virtually eliminated, reducing the risk of thermal spikes when pushing the engine hard. Made in the USA, each unit undergoes rigorous inspection to confirm weld consistency and leak-free performance. The result is a radiator that withstands the stresses of towing heavy loads or aggressive road use without compromising reliability.
True Drop-In Installation with Factory Mount Integration
This radiator aligns precisely with the original mounting points on 1988–1995 C1500, K1500, Tahoe, Suburban and Yukon frames, offering a true drop-in replacement that requires no alteration to frame rails or custom bracket fabrication. Inlet and outlet ports mirror factory positions for automatic transmission coolant lines, allowing builders to reuse existing hoses and hard lines for a clean, uncluttered engine bay. The direct fit preserves chassis strength and eliminates guesswork when positioning the cooling assembly, lowering install time and simplifying alignment. For shops and DIY enthusiasts alike, this alignment accuracy means less trial fitting and more time on the road. Retaining stock mounting hardware also ensures consistent vibration damping and secure attachment under all driving conditions.
Premium Aluminum Construction and Protective Finish Options
Constructed entirely from high-quality aluminum for both core and tanks, this radiator benefits from the metal's innate light weight, corrosion resistance and excellent thermal conductivity. The bare aluminum option takes advantage of the natural oxide layer to protect against moisture, while maximizing heat transfer through an uncoated surface. Alternatively, the black epoxy finish adds a durable protective barrier against road debris, salt and environmental contaminants without significantly inhibiting thermal performance. Both finishes feature a uniform coating thickness, preserving core efficiency across the entire face of the radiator. Whether tackling summer commutes or heavy towing assignments, operators can choose the finish that best balances appearance, maintenance needs and service life.
To explore the same radiator but with fans and maintain reliable cooling under load see our 1988-1995 LS Radiator 28.25" Core Width (Automatic Transmission) with Fans.