FANS & RADIATORS
AFCO
AFCO offers a large line of aluminum radiators including those for LS1s and LS1 transplants. Models such as the C4 and C5 Corvette radiators are designed as a direct bolt-in replacement that will require no modification or fabrication. Factory shrouds and hardware can even be accepted in most cases. Universal fit radiators, which do require some work, are also available for custom applications such as with engine swaps. Each radiator is built with efficiency in mind as getting the most out of a given size is just as important on the street as it is in racing. All design and fabrication is done in house where the radiator is also 100 percent TIG-welded, pressure-tested and epoxy-free. A polished finish is provided free of charge and built-in transmissions coolers are also available. AFCO has also just begun producing a line of fans and even a few water pumps, so look for more on these products in the future.
Be Cool
Be Cool has one of the widest selections in bolt-in radiator replacements for late model GM EFIs including F-body, Corvette, and Turbo Buick. This line of all-aluminum radiators is guaranteed to reduce coolant temperature by 20 degrees, or your money back. The epoxy-free construction allows better heat dissipation and complete reparability. Despite unsurpassed performance, these radiators are also 40 percent lighter than their OEM counterparts. All radiators are made entirely in the U.S. and are compatible with most coolants. Custom applications can draw from Be Cool's experience Pro Fab shop for a complete cooling system, which includes one of its high-torque, European-style fans. More common applications can draw from the Pro Street, Super Street or Street Series cooling systems. Each includes a dual 1-inch core crossflow performance aluminum radiator with oval fluted tubes, aluminum fan mounting brackets with hardware, a vented coolant recovery tank, 40-amp fan relays, a billet radiator cap, and either a single or dual fan setup (depending upon which series and horsepower level). Be Cool says that in eliminating the parasitic drag on the motor with the electric fans most engines gain 25-40 horsepower, which also increases airflow at lower rpm and speed. The fans come with a 20-amp motor that has a 6,000-hour or 300,000-mile life expectancy.
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Fluidyne
Fluidyne has recently been expanding its late model GM applications to add to its illustrious racing reputation achieved through the ranks of NASCAR, NHRA, and IROC. In addition to LT1 F-bodies, Fluidyne now makes its top of the line aluminum radiators for LS1 Corvettes (PN FHP11-97COR). For $600, you get a 38mm single row core (stock is 24 mm), which increases cooling surface area by 50 percent. The core is furnace-brazen and uses no epoxy, just hand-welded with .090-thick aluminum. It is designed as a true bolt-in replacement and allows reuse of all the other original components. Also check out Fluidyne's other cooling accessories including high performance oil coolers.
Ron Davis Racing Products
For those not familiar, Ron Davis has been building top quality racing radiators for over 30 years and his products have claimed wins in all forms of motorsports. Custom built radiators are his specialty via customer drawing or sample radiator. All products are built with extreme care to performance, aesthetics and fit using CNC machining, TIG welds, dense fin counts, and the highest quality materials available. There is a full line of Corvette radiators as well as many other late model performance rides, and custom variations of many popular applications. Two of his latest creations are the 1-38GT04 made to fit the 2004 GTO, and the 11-16CV9710 for C5 Corvettes. Both sport two rows of 1-inch tubes, full aluminum, TIG-welded construction, and CNC-machined fittings. The GTO radiator is made for a drop-in fit while the C5 unit goes the extra mile with a stainless steel oil cooler as well as fan shroud and condenser mounts.
Summit Racing
Those looking to save a few bucks might be interested in Summit Racing's line of aluminum radiators and fans. For just under $245 a Direct Fit dual row, cross-flow radiator with a 2.25-inch thick core and built-in tranny cooler could be had for your Third Gen (PN 380455). Those willing to put in a little extra work can select a universal Racing radiator for under $200, which comes in varying widths, heights and thicknesses. Flex fans and electric fans are also available from 10-inch diameter all the way up to 18 inches for well under $100, which will move up to 2,300 cfm of air. Single 12-, 14- and 16-inch diameter aluminum shroud and fan combos range between $170 and $220-capable of up to 2,215 cfm. Meanwhile a dual 12-inch setup (PN 381010) will move up to 2,210 cfm, draw 18 amps, and cost just under $200.
EXPANSION TANKS & CATCH CANS
Since a good portion of late model vehicles do not already have an adequately sized expansion tank for coolant, it is never a bad idea to install a nice looking polished piece like the two new tanks Canton just released for Third Gen F-bodies and '78-88 G-bodies. Both of these products are a direct bolt-in and have vented caps with provisions for an external sight gauges. Canton also makes a full line of oil coolers with many late model applications including LT1 and LS1 F-bodies as well as C4 and C5 Corvettes. Since catch cans are required by NHRA rules, it might be a good idea to pick one up if you are building a serious racecar, and want to avoid spilling coolant all over the track and getting the boot. Most makers of cooling system components make catch cans including: Summit, Moroso, Evans, Be Cool, and AFCO.