1988-1993 Chevy C/K Series C1500 K1500 Suburban 34" Core Radiator for LS and LT Swaps
For manual transmission LS or LT conversions in 1988-1993 Chevy C1500, K1500 and Suburban trucks, maintaining stable coolant temperatures under hauling or spirited driving begins with the right radiator. Engineered to drop into GMT400 C K Series mounts without trimming, this 1988-1993 LS Radiator features a 34 inch full width core that preserves factory hose routing and fan shroud positioning. Precision TIG welds join high grade aluminum tanks to the core for a leak free seal under thermal cycling and vibration. Together these elements ensure reliable cooling under load and extend service intervals.
Seamless Integration into GMT400 C K Series Frames
This radiator is engineered to slip directly into the original mounting points of 1988-1993 Chevy C1500, K1500, and Suburban trucks with a manual transmission, eliminating the need for trimming or adapter brackets. By matching the factory hose connections and retaining the stock fan shroud clearance, it preserves the designed airflow path and avoids common fitment headaches during LS or LT swaps. Installers benefit from predictable alignment of coolant lines and brackets, reducing labor time and the risk of misrouting. Whether fitting a weekend project or a professional build, this direct fit approach ensures the chassis retains its factory geometry while accommodating modern powerplants.
34 Inch Wide Core for Enhanced Heat Rejection
At its heart, the 34 inch wide aluminum core delivers an expansive surface area that accelerates coolant velocity and disperses engine heat more evenly. The full width design optimizes the interaction between coolant and air stream, which is vital when pushing higher output LS or LT engines under load. Aluminum's excellent thermal conductivity pulls heat away from the engine block rapidly, preventing hotspots during towing or spirited driving. This greater core volume keeps operating temperatures in the ideal range, bolstering performance consistency and protecting internal components from excessive wear.
TIG Welded Aluminum Structure for Long Lasting Durability
The radiators tanks, end caps, and tubes are assembled using precision TIG welded joints, a process prized for producing strong bonds with minimal porosity in aluminum assemblies. This method yields uniform weld beads that resist cracking under repeated temperature shifts and engine vibration, ensuring a leak free seal over many seasons of use. The all aluminum construction also resists corrosion without adding significant weight, making it well suited for trucks tasked with heavy towing or off road duty. Together, these design choices result in a resilient cooling solution that supports the demands of a high output swap.
Customizable Finish Options for Protection and Style
Owners can choose between the raw appearance of bare aluminum or a uniform black epoxy coating to suit their environment and aesthetic goals. The epoxy layer adds a barrier against road salt, moisture, and industrial contaminants, extending service life in humid or winter driving conditions. In contrast, the bare finish highlights the material’s natural sheen and can be polished to a mirror like glow over time. Both coatings maintain identical thermal performance, allowing builders to balance corrosion resistance with visual impact without compromising coolant flow.
Count on MuscleRods for precise fit and lasting cooling performance; for the same radiator but with fans see our 1988-1993 LS Radiator 34" Core Width (Manual Transmission) with Fans.