1988-1993 Chevy C1500/K1500/Suburban 34in Radiator for LS and LT Engine Swaps
Swapping a powerful LS or LT engine into a GMT400 C/K Series truck with manual transmission demands a cooling solution built to handle sustained heat loads and preserve drivetrain reliability. This 1988-1993 LS Radiator 34 inch Core Width (Manual Trans) slides into the factory mounts on Chevy C1500, K1500 and Suburban trucks with no cutting or adapter brackets and retains original hose inlet and outlet locations to keep fan shroud clearance intact and installation straightforward. Crafted with precision TIG welded high grade aluminum tanks and an expansive 34 inch core this radiator maintains a leak free seal and resists corrosion through repeated thermal cycles. The broad surface area accelerates coolant flow and disperses heat evenly during towing, hauling or spirited driving so engine temperatures stay in check and transmission oil stability remains consistent.
Direct Frame Mount Fitment for Seamless Installation
This radiator is engineered to drop directly into the factory mounting points of 1988-1993 Chevy C1500, K1500, and Suburban trucks equipped with a manual transmission, eliminating any need for cutting or adapter brackets. By preserving the original hose inlet and outlet locations, it maintains proper coolant flow routing and fan shroud clearance to ensure the factory air path remains intact. Installers benefit from predictable line alignment and bracket positioning, reducing labor time and minimizing the chance of misrouted hoses. The result is a straightforward, time-saving solution that keeps chassis geometry as designed.
34 Inch Full Width Core for Rapid Heat Rejection
The expansive 34 inch core provides a broad surface area that accelerates coolant flow and maximizes heat transfer away from high output LS or LT engines. Aluminum's high thermal conductivity draws heat from the block efficiently, preventing localized hotspots during heavy towing or spirited driving. Even at sustained loads, this full width design ensures coolant temperatures remain stable, which helps maintain transmission oil viscosity and overall drivetrain reliability. Consistent cooling performance translates into greater confidence under demanding operating conditions.
Precision TIG Welded Aluminum Assembly
High grade aluminum tanks and end caps are joined to the full width core using TIG welding, a process known for producing uniform, low-porosity bonds. This method creates leak free seams that resist cracking under repeated thermal cycling and engine vibration. Combined with the natural corrosion resistance of aluminum, the robust construction delivers a lightweight yet durable radiator capable of enduring road shocks and temperature swings. Built in the USA, each unit meets strict quality standards to support extended service intervals and reliable operation.
Coating Options for Protection and Style
Choose between a classic bare aluminum finish or a black epoxy coating to suit environmental and styling needs. The epoxy barrier shields the core and tanks from moisture, road salt, and debris, making it ideal for winter climates or coastal use. In its raw form, the untreated surface highlights aluminum’s natural sheen and can be polished to a mirror like glow. Both finishes retain identical thermal efficiency, so you can personalize appearance without sacrificing cooling performance.
Count on MuscleRods for reliable cooling in all conditions and see our 1988-1993 LS Radiator 34" Core Width (Manual Transmission) with Fans for the same radiator but with fans.