1988-1995 Chevy/GMC C/K Truck and SUV Radiator for LS and LT Swaps
In a GMT400 C/K pickup or full size SUV fitted with an LS or LT powerplant, under hood heat can overwhelm the stock cooling system. The 1988-1995 LS Radiator 28.25 inch Core Width (Auto Trans) with Fans is built to sustain stable coolant temperatures under towing, spirited driving and slow traffic by combining an oversized core and matched dual electric fans. Constructed from TIG welded aluminum, the radiator fits C1500, K1500, Tahoe, Suburban or Yukon models without modification and resists corrosion while reducing weight. With consistent airflow across the full core width this assembly keeps coolant stability from coast to coast.
Oversized Core Design for Superior Heat Dissipation
The 28.25 inch extra wide core dramatically enlarges the coolant contact area, accelerating the removal of engine heat under heavy load or hot weather conditions. By extending the flow path through a greater volume of aluminum tubes and fins, the radiator prevents spikes in coolant temperature during towing or sustained high speed driving. Its full width layout ensures consistent thermal rejection even in slow traffic or on steep grades, reducing the risk of heat soak. Designed to bolt directly to GMT400 C1500, K1500, Tahoe, Suburban and Yukon chassis points, this core requires no modification for a precise fit and reliable performance.
Precision TIG Welded Construction for Leak Resistance
Every joint on the aluminum core and tanks is created with TIG welding, a process known for forming dense, pore free bonds that resist fluid escape and stand up to engine vibration. This technique produces uniform weld beads that retain structural integrity through countless thermal cycles, greatly reducing the chance of coolant or transmission fluid leaks over time. The high grade aluminum material further contributes corrosion resistance in road salt and coastal environments while shaving pounds from the front end. This combination of welding precision and lightweight construction enhances both durability and throttle response, making it ideal for modern LS and LT swap applications.
Dual High Performance Fans for Uniform Airflow
A pair of electric fans is mounted behind the core to deliver even airflow across the entire surface area, eliminating hot spots that can lead to uneven cooling. Each fan motor is calibrated to engage at specific coolant temperatures, providing rapid response to sudden load changes such as trailer pulls or spirited acceleration. The dual arrangement reduces strain on individual motors compared with a single large unit, extending service life and lowering noise levels. A prewired harness and integrated fan controller simplify installation, ensuring the system operates reliably without additional relays or switches.
Protective Coating Choices for Environmental Defense
Installers may choose the classic bare aluminum finish to highlight the metal's natural sheen or opt for a black epoxy coating for extra protection beneath the hood. The epoxy bonds tightly to the surface, shielding the core and tanks from road debris, salt spray and airborne contaminants that can trigger oxidation. Both finishes are applied in a way that preserves the radiator's thermal transfer properties, ensuring coating thickness does not impede heat rejection. This flexibility in appearance allows custom engine bays to look clean and stay protected in all climates.
Count on reliable coolant performance and for a fanless option choose our 1988-1995 LS Radiator 28.25" Core Width (Automatic Transmission) which is the same radiator but without fans.