26-Inch Wide Core Radiator for LS Engine Swap on 1973-1976 Chevy Corvette
Swapping an LS into a 1973-1976 Corvette auto pushes the stock cooling system to its limit and calls for a radiator designed to handle extra heat. The 1973-1976 Corvette Radiator 26" Wide Core (Auto Trans) features a 26 inch wide core that expands coolant capacity and opens a broader airflow path through the Y-Body frame. Its sturdy aluminum construction ensures rapid heat rejection and resists corrosion in both street driving and track use. Installation fits factory brackets on automatic transmission models so no drilling or trimming of shrouds is required.
Integrated Transmission Fluid Cooling for Automatic 1973 to 1976 Corvettes
When fitting a radiator to an automatic Corvette from 1973 to 1976, managing transmission fluid temperature is as critical as engine heat rejection. This radiator features a built in cooler circuit that channels transmission fluid alongside the core's coolant passages, ensuring fluid stays within optimal range under heavy loads. Maintaining stable transmission temperatures reduces wear on seals and clutch packs, promoting smoother shifts and extending service intervals. Integrating this function into the thermal core avoids separate coolers and simplifies the plumbing in a tight Y Body engine bay.
Dual Finish Options for Lasting Corrosion Protection
Finished in either classic bare aluminum or a black epoxy coating, the radiator adapts to diverse environmental demands, from road salt treated streets to humid summer days. Bare aluminum promotes direct heat transfer for rapid cooling, while the epoxy layer offers an extra barrier against moisture and chemical exposure. This choice allows owners to prioritize maximum thermal performance or enhanced resistance to pitting and surface oxidation. Both finishes maintain a clean appearance and require minimal upkeep for enduring operation.
USA Craftsmanship Ensures Precise Fit in Y Body Frame
Manufactured in the USA, this radiator benefits from strict quality control measures that deliver reliable fitment in the narrow Y Body frame of early Corvettes. Each unit matches factory mounting points for automatic transmission models, eliminating the need for drilling or trimming and reducing installation time. Tighter manufacturing tolerances result in uniform tube spacing and consistent flow characteristics across every core. The precise alignment enhances structural stability and minimizes the risk of leaks or vibration related fatigue over years of driving.
This radiator delivers reliable cooling under rigorous driving. For the same radiator but with fans consider our 1973-1976 Corvette Radiator 26" Wide Core (Automatic Transmission) with Fans.