High-Capacity 26 inch Radiator for LS Swap in 1973-1976 Chevy Corvette
Swapping an LS mill into a classic Y Body Corvette from model years 1973 through 1976 demands a cooling solution that can keep pace and the 1973-1976 Corvette Radiator 26 inch Wide Core (Auto Trans) is engineered to handle the extra heat generated by both engine coolant and transmission fluid without altering the factory mounting points. Its 26 inch wide core houses dedicated transmission cooler channels and precise coolant galleries to maintain stable engine temperatures in both urban driving and highway cruising and the aluminum structure mounts directly to factory brackets on automatic transmission Corvettes while resisting corrosion.
Engineered Core Expansion for Superior Heat Dissipation
The 26 inch wide core transforms coolant circulation by increasing both the volume of fluid and the frontal area exposed to airflow through the narrow Y-Body frame. A larger core means coolant remains in contact with cooling fins for a longer period, drawing away more heat from the LS mill under stop-and-go traffic or sustained highway speeds. The evenly spaced tube arrays and tall fin stacks optimize air passage, preventing hot spots during spirited runs or towing duties. This expanded surface area keeps peak coolant temperatures in check, avoiding heat soak and maintaining consistent engine performance in a Corvette platform that was originally engineered for much lower thermal loads.
Robust Aluminum Construction for Weight Efficiency and Durability
Forged from premium aluminum alloy, this radiator harnesses the metal's high thermal conductivity to move heat away from coolant passages almost instantly. Wall thickness has been honed to balance structural rigidity with mass reduction, ensuring the core resists vibration and impact without adding unnecessary weight to the front end. Keeping overall mass low helps preserve the Corvette's steering response and original driving dynamics, while the aluminum substrate inherently resists rust and pitting over time. Quality welds and tube bonds undergo strict inspection to guarantee long service life under daily commuting or track-day conditions.
Dual Coating Choices for Corrosion Defense or Pure Thermal Output
Builders can select either a bare aluminum finish or a durable black epoxy coating based on their performance goals and environmental demands. The untreated core offers direct metal-to-air contact for maximum thermal throughput, making it ideal for competitive settings where every degree of cooling counts. Conversely, the epoxy layer creates a chemical and moisture barrier to shield the radiator from road salt, brake dust, and airborne debris, extending its service life in climates prone to corrosion. Uniform application ensures that every tube and fin remains free of clogs, so airflow and coolant flow remain uninhibited regardless of coating choice.
Factory Bracket Compatibility for Automatic Transmission Corvettes
Designed specifically for 1973-1976 Corvette models equipped with an automatic transmission, this radiator aligns perfectly with the original mounting points on the Y-Body frame. No drilling, trimming, or shroud modification is required, allowing enthusiasts to install the unit swiftly using existing hardware. Precision fitment preserves the vehicle's sheet-metal integrity and factory appearance, reducing installation time and the risk of alignment errors. By delivering a straight-forward upgrade path, this solution bridges classic Corvette style with modern cooling performance.
This radiator offers a precise fit and durable cooling for your LS swap. For the same radiator but with fans see our 1973-1976 Corvette Radiator 26" Wide Core (Automatic Transmission) with Fans.