26-inch Wide Core LS Radiator for 1973-1976 Chevy Corvette
The 1973-1976 Corvette Radiator 26" Wide Core (Auto Trans) is engineered to handle the extra thermal load of an LS swap in a 1973-1976 Chevy Corvette while fitting precisely in the narrow Y-Body frame. Featuring aluminum construction, the design improves thermal transfer and resists corrosion during both street commutes and track runs. Integrated cooler circuit channels transmission fluid through a 26 inch wide core alongside engine coolant passages, keeping temperatures consistent under heavy loads. Mounting to factory brackets on automatic transmission models requires no drilling or trimming, simplifying installation in the classic Y-Body chassis.
Expanded 26 inch Core for Enhanced Cooling Capacity
The 26 inch wide core design substantially increases coolant volume and opens a broader path for airflow through the narrow Y Body frame. By widening the core, coolant residence time rises and more heat is drawn away from the LS engine, helping to maintain stable temperatures during heavy city traffic or extended highway cruising. This added capacity is especially important when retrofitting an LS into a Corvette originally equipped for lower thermal loads, as it prevents heat soak under hard acceleration or towing. The taller fin arrays and uniform tube spacing support efficient dissipation, while the increased surface area handles repeated high demand without sacrifice. Altogether, the expanded core delivers a noticeable drop in peak coolant temperature under both street and track conditions.
Precision Aluminum Construction for Efficient Heat Rejection
Crafted from high-grade aluminum, this radiator harnesses the metal's natural conductivity to move heat rapidly away from coolant channels. Aluminum walls are thin enough to maximize transfer yet robust enough to resist vibration and maintain core integrity under engine bay stress. Its lightweight nature also reduces overall front-end mass, promoting balanced handling in a classic Corvette setup. The material resists rust and corrosion without adding excessive weight, a critical factor for preserving the car's original driving dynamics. Each unit undergoes rigorous quality checks to ensure tube bonds and weld seams meet exacting standards for long service life.
Bare Aluminum and Black Epoxy Finishes for Corrosion Control
Owners may choose between a clean, bare aluminum surface or a black epoxy layer that adds a chemical and moisture barrier. The untreated finish offers direct metal-to-air contact for maximum thermal throughput, making it ideal for competitive applications where every degree counts. In contrast, the epoxy coating seals the core against road salt, brake dust, and airborne contaminants, helping to guard against pitting over time. Both options undergo uniform application to protect every tube and fin without clogging flow passages. This dual-finish approach gives builders the freedom to prioritize raw cooling efficiency or enhanced protection against environmental wear.
Factory Bracket Fitment in the 1973 through 1976 Corvette Y Body Frame
Designed specifically for automatic transmission models from 1973 through 1976, this radiator bolts directly to the original mounting points without modification. Precise dimensions adhere to the narrow Y Body envelope, eliminating the need for drilling, trimming, or shroud adjustments. This level of fitment accuracy simplifies installation and preserves the bodywork and sheet-metal integrity of a classic Corvette. It also reduces labor time and potential errors during assembly, allowing enthusiasts to focus on wiring and plumbing rather than custom mounting solutions. The result is a plug-and-play upgrade that blends modern cooling performance with factory-correct appearance.
Trust in the precision build of this radiator and for the same radiator but with fans see our 1973-1976 Corvette Radiator 26" Wide Core (Automatic Transmission) with Fans.