LS Engine Swap Radiator for 1977-1982 Chevy Corvette Manual Transmission
Swapping an LS powerplant into a 1977 to 1982 Corvette manual transmission chassis demands consistent coolant management and this 1977-1982 Corvette Radiator (Manual Trans) with Fans is engineered to meet that need. Its full TIG welded aluminum core and factory aligned bracket bosses attach directly to the Y Body frame rails without trimming sheet metal for a precise installation. Equipped with dual cooling fans and a plug and play wiring harness that ties into the stock loom, it maintains steady temperatures in urban driving and spirited runs alike. Corrosion resistance and light weight ensure reliable service life while preserving front end balance.
Precision Fitment for 1977 through 1982 Corvette Y Body Chassis
This radiator assembly is crafted to match the exact contours of the late vintage Corvette Y Body frame rails, ensuring inlet and outlet ports align with LS engine coolant lines without alteration to sheet metal. Factory aligned bracket bosses secure directly to stock mounting points, preserving the original structural design and reducing installation time. By retaining the factory hose path and frame integrity, vibration is minimized and the mounting remains rattle free under track or street driving conditions. Installers benefit from a bolt-in approach that eliminates custom bracket fabrication while maintaining the Corvette's front end balance.
TIG Welded Aluminum Core for Effective Heat Management
Constructed with high grade aluminum tanks and a full TIG welded core, this radiator provides leakproof joints that withstand repeated thermal expansion and contraction. Aluminum's high thermal conductivity accelerates transfer of engine heat into the airstream, enabling rapid temperature drop even under heavy load. Consistent wall thickness and precision flow passages promote uniform coolant velocity for maximum rejection of heat. The lightweight nature of the alloy also contributes to preserved front end weight distribution and improved vehicle handling.
Dual Electric Fans and Plug and Play Wiring Harness
Two preinstalled electric fans sit within a purpose-designed shroud that channels airflow evenly across the entire core surface, preventing localized hot spots when airspeed is low. The plug and play wiring harness integrates seamlessly with the factory loom, streamlining electrical connections and reducing potential fault points. Fans automatically engage at low vehicle speeds or idle to maintain steady coolant temperatures in traffic and extended idling situations. At highway speeds, the streamlined shroud continues to enhance airflow with minimal aerodynamic disruption.
Corrosion Resistant Finish Options for Durable Performance
Choose from a classic bare aluminum surface that maximizes thermal emissivity or a black epoxy finish that offers enhanced protection against moisture, road chemicals, and engine bay contaminants. Neither option adds bulk that would impede heat transfer, allowing the radiator to perform at peak efficiency. The epoxy variant resists fading and chipping, preserving a like-new appearance through many seasons of use. Both finishes provide a durable barrier against corrosion while complementing a restoration or custom engine bay presentation.
For the same radiator but without fans see our 1977-1982 Corvette Radiator (Manual Transmission). This MuscleRods assembly offers dependable cooling performance for your LS project.