Radiator for 1988-1993 Chevy C1500, K1500 and Suburban LS and LT Engine Swaps
Swapping an LS or LT engine into a GMT400 C/K Series truck can overtax the original cooling system, and the 1988-1993 LS Radiator 34" Core Width (Auto Trans) supplies the extra capacity needed to maintain safe coolant temperatures under load. This radiator features a 34 inch aluminum core that drops into the factory mounting points on 1988 to 1993 C1500, K1500 and Suburban models without any drilling or brackets. Precision TIG welds fuse the premium aluminum tanks and core into a single sealed assembly that resists vibration, temperature cycles and corrosion. By matching stock hose angles and transmission cooling provisions, it delivers reliable performance during towing and hot weather cruising.
Full Width 34 Inch Core for Efficient Heat Management
The 34 inch wide aluminum core dramatically expands the surface area available for heat exchange, which means coolant can discard engine heat more rapidly when the truck is towing heavy loads or operating in hot weather. By maximizing contact between coolant passages and aluminum fins, the design helps keep temperatures within a safe range even under sustained strain. Aluminum's high thermal conductivity ensures that heat is pulled away from the engine block quickly and distributed across the entire core. This stability prevents heat soak during long climbs or spirited driving, reducing the risk of overheating and helping maintain consistent power delivery.
Precision TIG Welded Aluminum Structure for Reliable Sealing
Every joint on this radiator is fused using TIG welding to create a seamless bond between the tanks and the core, eliminating the need for gaskets or mechanical fasteners that can leak or loosen over time. TIG welds produce a uniform, high strength join that resists the vibration and temperature cycles common in a truck application. This fully sealed assembly stands up to repeated thermal expansion without developing stress cracks, ensuring coolant stays inside the system even under heavy duty use. Built in the USA with premium grade aluminum, the radiator delivers long term durability and corrosion resistance from day one.
Factory Mount Drop In for Hassle Free Installation
Designed to fit the stock mounting points on 1988 to 1993 Chevy C1500, K1500 and Suburban models, this radiator requires no drilling, trimming or custom brackets. It accepts the factory hose connections at the precise angles used by the original cooling system and retains the automatic transmission cooler fittings for a complete plug in solution. By preserving the stock alignment, the installation process is straightforward and repeatable, cutting labor time and minimizing the risk of leaks that can come from ill-fitting adapters. This approach also maintains the correct pressure balance and flow paths, ensuring your LS or LT engine swap runs cool from the moment you fire it up.
Coating Options Balancing Protection and Aesthetic Appeal
Choose between the natural bare aluminum finish or a durable black epoxy coating to suit both restoration projects and modern custom builds. The untreated aluminum core develops a protective oxide layer that resists mild corrosion while preserving maximum thermal conductivity. The black epoxy option adds an extra barrier against chips, road debris and environmental exposure without sacrificing cooling performance. Both finishes complement the truck's engine bay, giving builders the freedom to match or contrast the cooling system to their overall color scheme.
Count on stable coolant temperatures under load. For the same radiator but with fans see our 1988-1993 LS Radiator 34" Core Width (Automatic Transmission) with Fans.