LS Swap Radiator for 1977-1982 Chevy Corvette Manual Trans
Swapping an LS powerplant into a 1977 to 1982 Corvette Y Body equipped with a manual transmission demands a cooling solution that fits precisely and maintains steady coolant flow during hard driving. Built from thick aluminum with fully TIG welded tanks and a dense fin array it aligns directly with the stock frame layout so installers can focus on engine and drivetrain installation rather than fabricating brackets. The core design sheds heat rapidly while resisting corrosion and reducing weight compared with steel units and it installs in minutes without adapter plates or custom fixtures. This dedication to precise fit and durable construction ensures reliable cooling performance for Y Body Corvette LS conversions.
Precision TIG Welding for Leak Proof Seams
This radiator employs 100 percent TIG welding to join high grade aluminum tanks and core panels with remarkable uniformity. By using precise heat control and a tungsten electrode, each weld penetrates deeply without introducing porosity or weak points that can lead to coolant loss. The result is a continuous bond that stands up to repeated temperature changes and pressure spikes typical of an LS engine under load. Built in the USA with skilled workmanship, the uniform weld pattern not only delivers long service life but also reduces the risk of seam failure during spirited driving or track use.
High Conductivity Aluminum Core with Dense Fin Design
Constructed entirely from high quality aluminum, this core maximizes thermal conductivity to rapidly move heat away from the coolant. A closely spaced fin arrangement expands the effective surface area, improving air flow across the core while slowing coolant temperature rise in heavy traffic or high rpm scenarios. Precision brazed passages inside the core maintain even fluid distribution to prevent hotspots, ensuring the LS engine maintains optimal operating temperature. The lightweight assembly also helps preserve the original handling balance of the 1977-1982 Corvette Y Body, giving drivers confidence in both performance and control.
Choice of Bare or Black Epoxy Coating to Resist Corrosion
Owners can opt for a bare aluminum finish to benefit from direct heat transfer or select a black epoxy coating for extra protection against road moisture and environmental contaminants. The untreated surface showcases the smooth finish of the tanks and core, while the epoxy option adds a robust barrier that stands up to chips, salt spray, and abrasion without hindering the radiator's heat rejection. Both finishes are laboratory tested to ensure bond strength and durability under high thermal stress. This flexibility allows restorers to match the engine bay aesthetic or prioritize maximum cooling efficiency in humid or coastal climates.
Direct Fitment for 1977-1982 Corvette Manual Transmission Frames
This radiator is engineered to align precisely with the factory frame rails and hose outlets of 1977 through 1982 Corvette Y Body chassis fitted with a manual transmission. By matching original mounting bracket locations and port positions, it eliminates the need for adapter plates, cutting, or custom fixtures. Installers can maintain the integrity of the frame and leave room for transmission tunnel and steering linkage clearance, reducing labor time and simplifying the swap process. The result is a clean installation that keeps coolant lines free of kinks or interference, allowing enthusiasts to focus on wiring and drivetrain tuning.
Count on a precise fit and reliable cooling performance for your Y Body Corvette LS swap. For the same radiator but with fans see our 1977-1982 Corvette Radiator (Manual Transmission) with Fans.