Hey Guys,

Just wanted solicit opinions. I have to buy a new radiator for my 88 Camaro (originally a 305/auto car), doing a 5.3 truck swap with Fbody LS1 drive accessories.

I've been looking at the Champion CC-951 and American Eagle AE951 radiators. Would you all suggest anything different?

I also didn't know if I would need anything different for in/out flow of the ls1 water pump in a radiator.

Thanks,
Bryan

 

Not sure of exact statistics, but I'd guess over half of LS 3rd gen swappers use a factory-type 3rd gen radiator.

You'll need hoses from something other than an f-body to use a 3rd gen radiator. But, not that difficult.

 

Im using stock 86 305 carb rad on my cammed lq4.Not a glitch in regulating temps 5yrs strong.I doubt you need anything fancy unless you got a heavily modded motor/boost.

 

I am running the 3 row Champion CC-951 myself and have been very happy with the rad.

Throw away the rad cap that comes with it, likely will not be reusable by the time you get it off anyway. Rad fits really well after you modify the rubber mounts and it does a very great job of keeping things cool. Fits with a/c condenser in place as well. Heat isn't really an issue with the LS motors, but was in my previous 406 SBC setup, which I never ran into any problems once this rad was installed.

One nice addition the Champion rad has over the stock rad for the LS installation is a connection point for the LS engine coolant X-over line. (See pic attached of connection point)

Check out Ebay for discount pricing.

 

Stock radiator. 180* thermostat. Works fine.
Sent my custom Griffin off with my 383, when I sold it.