1977-1982 Chevy Corvette Y-Body LS Radiator for Automatic Transmission
Launching an LS V8 into a 1977 to 1982 Corvette Y Body with automatic transmission calls for a radiator built to hold coolant temperatures steady under both highway cruises and spirited runs. This 1977 to 1982 Corvette Radiator (Auto Trans) drops directly into stock mounting points and retains factory hose connections to avoid custom brackets or line relocation. Beyond fitment accuracy, its 100 percent TIG welded aluminum core and tanks shed heat rapidly and resist corrosion in high demand conditions. Overall the design maintains chassis balance and steering feel while safeguarding engine performance in extended sessions.
Precision TIG Welding for Enduring Radiator Integrity
The radiator core and tanks are joined using 100 percent TIG welded seams that offer exceptional uniform strength. By directing a concentrated arc to fuse the aluminum, each joint achieves deep penetration without warping the surrounding metal. This means the cooling system can endure the thermal cycling of repeated track sessions without developing leaks or cracks. The precision of this welding approach also reduces stress risers that can lead to fatigue under constant vibration. The result is a radiator assembly that stands up to the rigorous demands of an LS engine swap while maintaining a reliable coolant seal.
Pure Aluminum Core Delivering Rapid Heat Rejection
Constructed entirely from high quality aluminum, the heat exchanger excels at drawing heat out of coolant in both steady highway driving and spirited bursts. Aluminum's superior conductivity prevents the formation of hot spots, keeping engine temperature within an optimal range even in high ambient conditions. Its light weight also shifts less mass to the front of the Y body, preserving the Corvette's original steering response and balance. Internally the clean metal passages resist oxidation and scale buildup, helping the system maintain peak performance over many seasons. This core design ensures that heat moves from the engine to the outside air with maximum efficiency.
Custom Finish Choices for Enhanced Corrosion Defense
Customers may select a bare aluminum finish that relies on a natural oxide layer for rust resistance or opt for a black epoxy coating that adds extra environmental protection. The epoxy barrier guards against road salt, moisture, and debris that can accelerate pitting in exposed metal. Both variants leave welds and joints unobstructed, and each is rigorously checked for full coverage and adhesion before shipment. No additional surface treatment is needed after installation, which streamlines the build process for professional shops and home mechanics alike. This flexibility means you can match corrosion protection to your local climate and style without sacrificing cooling efficiency.
Plug and Play Fitment into 1977 to 1982 Corvette Chassis
This radiator is engineered to drop into the original mounting locations of the 1977 to 1982 Corvette Y body without modifying brackets or rerouting lines. It retains the stock hose connections for the automatic transmission setup, preserving factory fluid pathways and pressure balances. By matching the automaker's attachment points and sealing surfaces, the installation time is cut dramatically, allowing builders to focus on other elements of their LS swap. With no custom bracket fabrication required, the front end geometry and steering feel remain true to the Corvette’s design. This exact fitment ensures reliable coolant flow right from the first startup.
Engineered to provide reliable cooling performance in your LS swap and maintain stable temperatures. For the same radiator but with fans see our 1977-1982 Corvette Radiator (Automatic Transmission) with Fans.