Radiator with 26-inch Wide Core and Fans for 1973-1976 Chevy Corvette LS Swap Manual Transmission
When taking on an LS engine installation in a 1973 to 1976 Chevrolet Y Body Corvette with a manual gearbox, stable coolant management is crucial, and the 1973-1976 Corvette Radiator 26" Wide Core (Manual Trans) with Fans delivers a tailored solution. This aluminum radiator has a 26 inch core, two electric fans with plug and play connectors, and bolts into existing bracket locations to preserve chassis alignment. Built in the USA and available in bare aluminum or black epoxy, it uses precise tube spacing and fin pattern to reject heat uniformly, cutting hot spots in spirited driving or stop and go traffic. Its TIG welded construction ensures leak free joints and long term durability.
Core Dimensions and Cooling Capacity
The 26" wide core delivers a substantial increase in heat exchange area compared to stock radiators for 1973-1976 Corvette. Featuring a two row tube structure the design optimizes coolant volume without exceeding factory mounting space. This additional volume holds more working fluid to absorb heat spikes during high rpm operation or towing. By expanding frontal width within the original support assembly the radiator achieves rapid thermal recovery between acceleration runs, reducing peak engine temperature and protecting both block and transmission pan fluids under demanding conditions.
Electric Fan Assembly Performance
Dual high-performance fans are preinstalled on a custom shroud that aligns precisely with the fin array. Their combined airflow rating exceeds 4000 cubic feet per minute, ensuring uniform air movement across the 26" core. Fan motors feature sealed bearings and low amp draw design to protect alternator output. A thermal switch engages the fans at user defined coolant thresholds and can connect to switched ignition power for reliable activation during idle or slow traffic.
Aluminum Construction and Quality Assurance
Constructed from high quality aluminum the radiator delivers exceptional thermal conduction with reduced mass. End tanks are laser cut and hand tacked before a multi pass welding cycle seals seams against high pressure leaks. Every unit undergoes a full 25 psi pressure test at our Michigan facility to confirm structural integrity. Aluminum’s inherent corrosion resistance combined with strict factory inspection standards ensures long service life and consistent performance under varied operating conditions.
MuscleRods Kit Integration
This radiator mates directly with MuscleRods mounting kits for LS conversions in 1973-1976 Corvette chassis equipped with manual transmissions. Following MuscleRods spacing and angle parameters allows the radiator to fit into the stock core support without cutting sheet metal. Proper placement maintains original hose routing and shroud alignment. Installers benefit from plug and play fitment that preserves chassis geometry and drivetrain alignment as established by the MuscleRods rails.
To complete your setup with the same radiator but without fans, consider our 1973-1976 Corvette Radiator 26" Wide Core (Manual Transmission).