LS Radiator with 26in Wide Core for 1973-1976 Chevy Corvette Y-Body Auto Trans
Swapping an LS engine into a classic Y Body Corvette often reveals the limits of the original cooling system, and the 1973 to 1976 Corvette Radiator 26 inch Wide Core (Auto Trans) addresses those issues with added coolant capacity and dedicated transmission passages. Its integrated transmission cooling passages maintain proper fluid temperature for the automatic gearbox while the expanded core area stabilizes coolant flow and heat transfer across the full front clip. Aluminum construction delivers corrosion resistance without adding front end weight and mounts directly to factory brackets on automatic transmission models for a precise fit. This precision built assembly features robust end tanks and alignment with stock hardware to ensure reliable operation on both city streets and open highways.
Enhanced Cooling Capacity with a 26 Inch Core
The extra wide core expands coolant volume and extends the fluid path through the tubes, giving the LS engine more time to shed heat even in heavy traffic. A broader fin surface area and precise tube spacing promote uniform airflow across the entire radiator face, reducing hotspots that can lead to engine knock or power loss. This design is especially valuable on winding roads or during sustained highway runs, where the system can maintain stable temperatures without overheating. By boosting both coolant capacity and fin density, the 26 inch core delivers consistent heat rejection under variable driving conditions and prevents early signs of heat soak in a classic Y Body Corvette.
Precision Aluminum Construction for Weight Savings and Strength
Crafted from premium aluminum alloy, the radiator core and end tanks provide excellent thermal conductivity while resisting corrosion from coolant additives and road salts. The choice of aluminum reduces front end mass, preserving the Corvette's original steering balance and handling feel. Expert TIG style welds ensure each joint remains leak free under vibration and pressure cycles, whether the car is used as a daily driver or on a track day. Rigorous quality checks confirm wall thickness and material integrity, giving owners confidence that the assembly withstands real world stress without adding unnecessary weight.
Finish Options to Prioritize Efficiency or Durability
Owners may select a bare aluminum finish for maximum direct metal contact with incoming air or opt for a black epoxy coating that acts as a barrier against moisture, brake dust, and road debris. The bare core excels at heat transfer and is ideal for those who demand every degree of cooling output in competition settings. The coated version extends service life in climates prone to corrosion by sealing tube surfaces without impeding airflow. Both finishes are applied with strict process control to avoid clogging passages, ensuring the radiator performs reliably over seasons of varied use.
Direct Fit Mounting Tailored for Automatic Transmission Models
This radiator installs directly to the stock factory brackets on automatic transmission Corvettes from 1973 through 1976, eliminating the need for cutting, trimming, or custom shroud fabrication. Accurate alignment with the existing frame mounts preserves sheet metal integrity and maintains the original fan shroud position, ensuring full compatibility with electric or mechanical fan setups. By using the stock hardware and mounting points, installers can complete the job quickly while avoiding common fitment issues and misalignment leaks. The result is a seamless upgrade that merges classic styling with modern cooling performance.
Trust in this assembly's reliable fitment for your Corvette and to complete your cooling upgrade with the same radiator but with fans see our 1973-1976 Corvette Radiator 26" Wide Core (Automatic Transmission) with Fans.