1973-1976 Chevy Corvette LS Swap Radiator 26in Wide Core with Fans for Manual Trans
When converting a 1973 through 1976 Chevy Corvette Y Body to an LS powerplant with a manual transmission, stock cooling often struggles to keep temperatures in check during spirited runs or stop and go traffic. This 26 inch wide core radiator with dual electric fans maintains stable airflow and even coolant distribution for consistent heat rejection under sustained engine loads. It installs using factory frame brackets and plug and play connectors to avoid cutting or splicing and preserve the car's original structure. Constructed entirely from aluminum with optimized flow paths, the design prevents hotspots and withstands corrosion for reliable performance on both the street and track.
26-Inch Core Enhances Cooling Efficiency
The 26-Inch wide core dramatically increases the surface area available for heat transfer, allowing coolant to shed more energy as air passes through the fins. By expanding each row of tubes and fin stack, the design prevents high temperature pockets that can develop during spirited driving or under heavy load. Precision tube spacing maintains a balance between airflow resistance and thermal rejection, ensuring that engine temperatures remain stable in both highway cruising and urban traffic. Installation is straightforward, as the core dimensions align with factory frame brackets and avoid any need for modification. This tailored fit also supports even coolant distribution across the entire core, so you benefit from consistent heat rejection on every run.
Dual Electric Fans Optimize Airflow
Two dedicated electric fans are preinstalled to maintain consistent airflow when vehicle speed alone cannot cool the engine. These fans span the full width of the radiator, preventing heat soak during extended idling or at the track. Temperature sensors engage the fans automatically via plug and play connectors, eliminating complex wiring or modifications. This system reduces the lag that can occur when the engine suddenly demands more cooling, safeguarding operating temperatures under stop and go traffic or during track sessions. With factory-aligned mounts, the fans sit neatly behind the core, preserving engine bay appearance while delivering reliable airflow precisely where it is needed.
Lightweight Aluminum Construction for Strength and Conductivity
Constructed entirely from premium aluminum, the radiator offers exceptional thermal conductivity while keeping overall weight to a minimum. Aluminum's inherent corrosion resistance helps prevent internal pitting and blockages over many heating cycles, and its resilience to vibration ensures that joins remain leak free under chassis stress. Precision TIG welds at every joint create robust seals that withstand high coolant pressure without failure. The alloy structure also provides natural damping against engine vibration, making this core an ideal solution for street and track use where durability and rapid heat rejection are equally critical.
Finish Options for Durability and Style
Choose between a bare aluminum finish that maximizes radiant heat transfer or a black epoxy coating that adds extra protection against moisture and road chemicals. Each finish is applied with uniform thickness to guard against flaking and ensure long term adhesion. The natural aluminum option highlights the metal’s bright appearance, while the black epoxy complements darker engine bay components for a factory inspired look. Both finishes resist temperature cycling and chemical exposure, so you can maintain performance and aesthetics in varied conditions. This flexibility lets builders match their preferred style without sacrificing cooling efficiency.
For the same radiator but without fans consider our 1973-1976 Corvette Radiator 26" Wide Core (Manual Transmission), backed by durable aluminum construction for stable cooling.