1963-1972 Chevy Corvette Y-Body Pin-Mount Radiator with Fan for LS Engine Swaps
Tackling an LS engine swap in a 1963 to 1972 Y Body Corvette with an automatic transmission demands a radiator that not only threads between tight frame rails but also supports stable coolant temperature under city and highway use. The 1963 to 1972 Corvette Pin-Mount Radiator (Auto Trans) with Fan delivers that dual purpose through a slim aluminum core that clears power steering and air conditioning components while preserving vital accessory space. A single 16 inch electric fan draws minimal current yet maintains consistent airflow at idle so the charging system remains under light load. Installation uses factory bolt points for 4L60E and 4L80E applications and common hand tools for a precise fit that aligns with original chassis geometry.
Precision Pin Mounting for Y Body Frame Alignment
The radiator's pin mount layout is engineered to drop effortlessly into the narrow frame rails of 1963–1972 Corvette Y Body models, ensuring accurate placement without any trimming or clearance issues. By using factory bolt locations designed for 4L60E and 4L80E automatic gearboxes, installers achieve an exact fit that preserves the original chassis geometry and maintains smooth coolant circulation. This approach not only clears vital accessories such as the steering pump and air conditioning compressor, it also eliminates the guesswork and custom fabrication often required in engine swaps. With the radiator locked precisely in place, drivers can expect consistent cooling performance across city streets and open highways under varied load conditions. Direct pin mounting helps protect against vibration and shifting, extending the lifespan of both the cooling assembly and connected hoses.
All Aluminum Core for Rapid Cooling Response
Constructed entirely from high grade aluminum, the core delivers exceptional thermal conductivity that accelerates heat rejection from a potent LS engine, keeping temperatures in check under sustained high load. The slim profile is critical for installations that demand maximum accessory clearance, yet it still provides a large surface area of cooling fins to dissipate heat effectively. Aluminum's natural resistance to corrosion helps preserve internal coolant passages over many seasons, while its lightweight design reduces front end mass to maintain sharp steering feedback. Precision welds at stress points add rigidity and guard against leaks, giving enthusiasts confidence in long distance drives and spirited track sessions alike. Reinforced end tanks and reinforced joints further ensure the radiator stands up to repeated temperature cycles without fatigue.
Single 16 Inch Fan for Efficient Idle Airflow
This assembly features a single 16 inch electric fan selected for its ability to maintain stable airflow at low engine speeds while drawing minimal current from the charging system. By avoiding a twin fan layout, electrical load is reduced, easing strain on classic Corvette wiring harnesses and alternators that may lack modern output capacity. The fan attaches directly to the radiator frame, so there is no need for additional shrouds or mounting brackets, simplifying the installation and preserving uniform airflow distribution across the core's face. During stop and go traffic or extended idling, the fan delivers consistent cooling to prevent hot spots and boil over scenarios. Quiet operation and low amp draw align with the original vehicle’s electrical design, ensuring reliability even in older systems.
Classic or Coated Finish for Durability and Style
Customers may choose the natural bare aluminum finish to showcase the metal’s raw texture and inherent oxidation resistance, or opt for the black epoxy coating to complement custom paint schemes and add an extra barrier against road debris. The epoxy layer bonds tightly to the core and tanks, resisting chips and abrasions while preventing moisture intrusion that can lead to corrosion. Both finishes stand up to relentless thermal cycling without cracking or peeling, so weld seams and cooling passages remain sealed season after season. This flexibility in appearance allows restorers and builders to match the radiator to their vehicle’s aesthetic goals without sacrificing longevity or performance. Whether displayed at a car show or driven daily, the finish retains its clean look and structural integrity.
Built for tight clearance and reliable cooling this MuscleRods radiator delivers consistent performance for your LS swap in a classic Corvette. For the same radiator but without a fan see our 1963-1972 Corvette Pin-Mount Radiator (Automatic Transmission).