1988-1993 C/K Series LS and LT Radiator for Chevy C1500 K1500 Suburban
Swapping an LS or LT engine into a 1988 through 1993 C1500, K1500 or Suburban demands consistent coolant circulation for both engine and transmission, and the LS Radiator 34 inch Core Width for Auto Trans tackles that challenge by fitting directly into factory brackets on the GMT400 chassis. Precision TIG welded aluminum tanks and a full-width 34 inch core maintain stable operating temperatures whether hauling heavy loads or cruising in high ambient heat. Matching stock hose angles and preserving automatic transmission cooler connections eliminates custom adapters and speeds installation. Every detail is engineered for reliable performance in demanding swap applications.
Precision TIG Welding for Leak Free Coolant Containment
The radiator's tanks and core are assembled using precision tungsten inert gas welding, which creates a continuous metal bond without gaskets or mechanical fasteners that could loosen over time. This process yields a fully sealed structure able to withstand the pressure fluctuations and vibration common in truck applications. Aluminum's natural corrosion resistance is preserved in the weld zone, preventing leaks and pitting even after repeated thermal cycles. By eliminating joint seams prone to fatigue, this design maintains reliable coolant containment down every mile. The result is a maintenance-free cooling solution engineered to match the rigors of LS and LT swaps.
Extensive Aluminum Core for Rapid Heat Rejection
Featuring a full 34 inch core width, this radiator dramatically increases the area available for heat exchange, allowing coolant to shed heat quickly when towing or cruising in high ambient temperatures. The tightly spaced fins maximize contact between coolant tubes and air flow, helping prevent engine hot spots that can sap performance or trigger overheating. High-quality aluminum construction promotes uniform heat distribution across the core, so temperature remains stable under extended load. This broad core also supports efficient transmission cooling passages, ensuring proper thermal management when pulling trailers or carrying heavy cargo. In practice, users will notice cooler running temperatures and greater engine output consistency.
Direct Fitment into GMT400 Chassis for Simplified Installation
Designed to drop straight into factory bracket locations on 1988-1993 C1500, K1500 and Suburban models, this unit mirrors original mounting points and hose angles for a true plug and play experience. It retains the stock automatic transmission cooler ports, avoiding the need for adapter fittings or hose rerouting that can introduce leak paths. This precise alignment also preserves factory flow characteristics, ensuring adequate coolant circulation through both engine and transmission from initial startup. Installation time is cut dramatically, since there’s no trimming, clearance checking or special tooling required. The result is a clean fit that maintains chassis integrity and service accessibility.
Coating Choices Balancing Protection and Thermal Efficiency
Owners can select a natural bare aluminum finish or a durable black epoxy coat to match their build goals without sacrificing core performance. The untreated aluminum option forms a thin oxide layer that naturally resists mild corrosion while delivering maximum thermal transfer capability. For applications exposed to road debris, moisture or fuel spills, the black epoxy adds a resilient barrier without obstructing fin spacing. Both surfaces allow unrestricted air flow for peak cooling effectiveness, and the coating process adheres within strict thickness tolerances to avoid thermal impedance. This flexibility lets builders prioritize either raw metal aesthetics or added protection based on operating environment.
Count on lasting temperature control and for the same radiator but with fans consider our 1988-1993 LS Radiator 34" Core Width (Automatic Transmission) with Fans.