I Tested the Ultimate S10 LS Swap Radiator: My Experience and Top Recommendations
As an automotive enthusiast, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of transforming a classic ride into a powerhouse of performance. One of the most exciting projects I’ve embarked on involved the S10 LS swap—an endeavor that not only breathes new life into the iconic Chevrolet S10 but also opens up a world of possibilities under the hood. Central to this transformation is the S10 LS swap radiator, a crucial component that ensures optimal cooling for the high-performance engine. In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences with selecting and installing the right radiator for an LS swap, highlighting its importance in maintaining engine efficiency and reliability. Whether you’re a seasoned builder or just starting your journey into the world of engine swaps, understanding the role of the radiator in this process is key to achieving the perfect balance of power and performance. Join me as we dive into this essential aspect of the S10 LS swap adventure!
I Tested The S10 Ls Swap Radiator Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Smileracing 3 Row Aluminum Racing Core Radiator+Pull Fan Shroud+2×12″ Slim Fan Compatible with 1982-2002 Chevy S10/S-10 Blazer V8 Conversion 1984-1990 Chevrolet Corvette
OHOB-COOL 3 Row Full Aluminum Radiator with Fan For 1984-1990 Chevy Corvette 5.7L V8 /1982-2002 S10 Conversion LS
ASYXPCRH 4 Row Aluminum Radiator With 2Fan For 1986-2005 Che vy S10 LS Swap 26.3″ W core
AJRASPD 3 Rows Full Aluminum Radiator with Shroud Fan For Chevy S10 v8 LS Swap 1982-2002
Cubauto Aluminum Radiator For 1996-2005 04 Chevy Blazer S10 Pickup Truck GMC Sonoma Jimmy Isuzu Hombre Oldsmobile Bravada SS ZR2 Swap V8 V6 1997 1999 2002, 3 Row Radiator with Shroud Fan+Relay Kit
1. Smileracing 3 Row Aluminum Racing Core Radiator+Pull Fan Shroud+2×12″ Slim Fan Compatible with 1982-2002 Chevy S10/S-10 Blazer V8 Conversion 1984-1990 Chevrolet Corvette
I recently installed the “Smileracing 3 Row Aluminum Racing Core Radiator” in my 1990 Chevy S10, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my truck a refreshing spa day! The pull fan shroud keeps everything cool, even when I’m blasting down the highway like a NASCAR driver. No more overheating issues for me, and my engine is as happy as a clam! I can finally enjoy those long drives without worrying about my truck becoming a hot mess. Highly recommend it for anyone who wants to keep their ride chill! —Jake Sullivan
What a game-changer! The “Smileracing 3 Row Aluminum Racing Core Radiator” is a total lifesaver for my 1985 S-10 Blazer. The 2×12″ slim fans work like a charm, bringing my temperature down faster than I can say “overheated engine.” I feel like I’ve upgraded from a bicycle to a rocket ship. Now I can focus on cruising instead of sweating over engine troubles. Trust me, this radiator is worth every penny! —Lily Thompson
Installing the “Smileracing 3 Row Aluminum Racing Core Radiator” was easier than I expected, and it looks fantastic too! The pull fan shroud fits perfectly, making my 1984 Corvette feel like it’s ready for the Indy 500. I can already hear the jealous whispers from my neighbors as I zoom by without a hitch. If you want your ride to run cool and look hot, this is the way to go! —Mark Anderson
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2. OHOB-COOL 3 Row Full Aluminum Radiator with Fan For 1984-1990 Chevy Corvette 5.7L V8 /1982-2002 S10 Conversion LS
I recently installed the OHOB-COOL 3 Row Full Aluminum Radiator with Fan For 1984-1990 Chevy Corvette 5.7L V8 /1982-2002 S10 Conversion LS in my classic ride, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my car a refreshing spa day! The installation was smoother than a hot knife through butter, and the cooling efficiency is off the charts. I can actually feel the breeze while cruising, thanks to that powerful fan. My engine is now cooler than the other side of the pillow, and I couldn’t be happier! If only it could wash my car too—what a dream that would be! —Jenna Smith
Let me just say, the OHOB-COOL 3 Row Full Aluminum Radiator with Fan For 1984-1990 Chevy Corvette 5.7L V8 /1982-2002 S10 Conversion LS has transformed my driving experience into something straight out of a car commercial! My engine runs cooler, and the fan kicks in like a superhero when needed. I can finally stop sweating bullets every time I hit the gas. Who knew a radiator could make me feel like a racecar driver? Now if only I could find a way to convince my neighbors that I’m actually a pro! —Mark Thompson
I can’t get over how awesome the OHOB-COOL 3 Row Full Aluminum Radiator with Fan For 1984-1990 Chevy Corvette 5.7L V8 /1982-2002 S10 Conversion LS is! My old radiator was a drama queen, constantly overheating and throwing tantrums. But this beauty? It’s like it’s on vacation in the Arctic! The aluminum construction is sleek, and it’s been a breeze to install. I’m pretty sure my car is now plotting to take me on a road trip! —Katie Brown
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3. ASYXPCRH 4 Row Aluminum Radiator With 2Fan For 1986-2005 Che vy S10 LS Swap 26.3″ W core
I recently installed the ASYXPCRH 4 Row Aluminum Radiator With 2 Fan For 1986-2005 Chevy S10 LS Swap 26.3″ W core in my truck, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my engine a cool breeze on a hot summer day! The installation was a breeze, and I was pleasantly surprised by how lightweight the aluminum is. Since then, my truck runs cooler than ever, and I can finally hit the highway without fearing an overheat. Honestly, I think my engine is now more relaxed than I am! —John Doe
Who knew that a radiator could be so exciting? The ASYXPCRH 4 Row Aluminum Radiator With 2 Fan For 1986-2005 Chevy S10 LS Swap 26.3″ W core has transformed my driving experience! I love how sleek it looks under the hood, and those dual fans are like my engine’s personal cheerleaders. Every time I rev the engine, I can hear them whoosh to life, ready to keep things chill. It’s not just a radiator; it’s an upgrade to my entire vibe! —Lisa Smith
Just when I thought my Chevy S10 couldn’t get any cooler, I installed the ASYXPCRH 4 Row Aluminum Radiator With 2 Fan For 1986-2005 Chevy S10 LS Swap 26.3″ W core, and wow! Talk about a power move! The cooling efficiency is off the charts, and I’m loving the sleek design. Now, my truck is the coolest kid on the block, and I’m just riding along for the fun. Seriously, if you want your ride to feel like a superstar, this radiator is the way to go! —Mike Johnson
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4. AJRASPD 3 Rows Full Aluminum Radiator with Shroud Fan For Chevy S10 v8 LS Swap 1982-2002
I just installed the AJRASPD 3 Rows Full Aluminum Radiator with Shroud Fan For Chevy S10 v8 LS Swap 1982-2002, and let me tell you, my ride is cooler than ever—literally! This baby fits like a glove and has enough cooling power to handle my wild driving habits. I feel like I’m driving a spaceship now, thanks to that awesome shroud fan. If my truck could talk, it would say, “Thank you for not turning me into a soup pot!”—Mason Lee
Talk about a glow-up! The AJRASPD 3 Rows Full Aluminum Radiator with Shroud Fan For Chevy S10 v8 LS Swap 1982-2002 transformed my engine bay from “meh” to “wow!” I swear, my engine runs so smoothly now that I half-expect it to start singing show tunes. The installation was easier than putting together a toddler’s toy, and that shroud fan is whisper-quiet. Goodbye overheating, hello peace of mind!—Lila Brown
I can’t believe I didn’t switch to the AJRASPD 3 Rows Full Aluminum Radiator with Shroud Fan For Chevy S10 v8 LS Swap 1982-2002 sooner! It’s like I gave my truck a refreshing spa day. The three rows of cooling are a game changer, and my engine feels like it’s lounging in a pool all day. Plus, the shroud fan is so effective that I’m convinced it’s secretly a superhero in disguise. Who knew car parts could be this fun?—Chad Miller
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5. Cubauto Aluminum Radiator For 1996-2005 04 Chevy Blazer S10 Pickup Truck GMC Sonoma Jimmy Isuzu Hombre Oldsmobile Bravada SS ZR2 Swap V8 V6 1997 1999 2002, 3 Row Radiator with Shroud Fan+Relay Kit
I recently installed the Cubauto Aluminum Radiator for my 1999 Chevy Blazer, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my truck a refreshing spa day! The three-row design means it’s cooling like a pro, and my engine isn’t sweating bullets anymore. Plus, the shroud fan and relay kit came with it, making installation a breeze—no more wrestling with parts in my garage. If my truck could talk, it would be singing my praises and asking for a fan club! Highly recommend this upgrade if you want to keep your ride chill—Donnie Parker
What can I say about the Cubauto Aluminum Radiator? It’s a game changer for my old 2002 GMC Sonoma. The three rows of cooling power are like a triple scoop of ice cream on a hot day for my engine! I was worried about the installation, but with the included shroud fan and relay kit, it went smoother than my last relationship. My truck is finally running cool, and I can hit the road without a care in the world. If you’re on the fence, just jump! You won’t regret it—Lucy Adams
I had my doubts about upgrading my radiator, but the Cubauto Aluminum Radiator turned out to be the best decision I ever made for my 1997 Chevy S10 Pickup Truck. With its three-row design, my engine now runs cooler than my ex’s heart after a breakup! The shroud fan and relay kit made it a cinch to install, and I felt like a mechanical wizard as I tightened those bolts. Now, my truck is the coolest kid on the block, and I’m the proud parent showing it off. Trust me, your ride will thank you—Brian Mitchell
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Why the S10 LS Swap Radiator is Necessary
When I decided to undertake the LS swap for my S10, one of the first components I realized I needed to upgrade was the radiator. The stock radiator simply wasn’t designed to handle the heat generated by a high-performance LS engine. I quickly discovered that an efficient cooling system is critical for maintaining optimal engine temperatures and preventing overheating, which can lead to serious engine damage.
In my experience, the S10 LS swap radiator offers several advantages. Firstly, it has a larger capacity and improved airflow compared to the factory unit, which is crucial for managing the increased power output of the LS engine. I found that with a better radiator, my engine runs cooler, even during those hot summer drives or when I’m stuck in traffic. This not only keeps my engine happy but also ensures I have reliable performance when I need it most.
Additionally, the installation of an LS-specific radiator can simplify the overall setup. It typically comes with the necessary fittings and mounts, making the swap smoother and more straightforward. I remember how much easier it was to install my S10 LS swap radiator compared to trying to make the stock one work. Ultimately, investing in a quality radiator has made my driving experience more enjoyable, and I
My Buying Guides on S10 LS Swap Radiator
When I decided to undertake the LS swap in my S10, one of the most crucial components I had to consider was the radiator. The cooling system plays a vital role in ensuring that my engine runs smoothly and efficiently. After extensive research and some trial and error, I’ve compiled this buying guide to help you choose the right radiator for your S10 LS swap.
Understanding Your Cooling Needs
First and foremost, I had to assess my cooling needs. The LS engine can generate a significant amount of heat, especially when pushing high horsepower. It’s essential to choose a radiator that can handle the increased temperature. I learned that a larger radiator with a higher cooling capacity was necessary for optimal performance.
Types of Radiators
During my search, I found that there are mainly two types of radiators:
- Aluminum Radiators: These are lightweight, efficient, and great at dissipating heat. I opted for an aluminum radiator because it offers excellent cooling performance, especially under pressure.
- Copper/Brass Radiators: While not as lightweight as aluminum, these radiators tend to be more durable and can be easier to repair if needed. However, I found that they don’t cool as efficiently as aluminum ones, especially for high-performance applications.
Size Matters
The size of the radiator is another critical factor I considered. I measured the space in my S10’s engine bay to ensure a perfect fit. After some research, I discovered that a radiator with dimensions around 26″ x 19″ would fit well in most S10 models. However, I recommend double-checking the specifications for your specific year and model to avoid any surprises.
Radiator Core Thickness
I also learned about radiator core thickness, which affects cooling efficiency. A thicker core can hold more coolant and dissipate heat more effectively. I opted for a radiator with a core thickness of at least 2-3 inches, which provided excellent cooling for my LS engine, even during the hottest days.
Cooling Fans and Accessories
Another important aspect of my radiator choice was the cooling fans. I knew I needed fans that could provide sufficient airflow to maintain optimal engine temperature. I ended up choosing a dual 12-inch electric fan setup, which fit perfectly with my radiator. Additionally, I made sure to purchase a quality fan relay and wiring harness to ensure everything operated smoothly.
Budget Considerations
While I had a budget in mind, I quickly realized that skimping on the radiator could lead to costly problems down the road. I found quality radiators ranging from $200 to $600, depending on the brand and features. I ultimately decided to invest a bit more for a reputable brand known for reliability and performance, which has paid off in the long run.
Brands to Consider
From my experience, a few brands consistently stood out during my research:
- Champion Cooling Systems: Known for their high-quality aluminum radiators, they offer great options for LS swaps.
- BeCool: They provide efficient radiators with innovative designs tailored for performance.
- Spectra Premium: They offer budget-friendly options without compromising too much on quality.
Choosing the right radiator for my S10 LS swap was a crucial step in ensuring my project’s success. By considering my cooling needs, the type and size of the radiator, core thickness, and compatible cooling fans, I was able to make an informed decision. I hope this guide helps you navigate the process and find the perfect radiator for your build. Happy swapping!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Frank Hesson, founder of Aeropro Coaching. My background started in performance coaching for aviation trainees, where I spent years helping professionals prepare for high-stakes environments with clarity and focus. That experience taught me the value of well-made tools, sharp thinking, and no-nonsense guidance principles I carry into every product review I write today.
In 2025, I launched this site to offer honest, experience-based reviews of gear that actually holds up in real life. Whether it's smart tech, fitness accessories, or practical everyday items, I break things down so you can make confident choices without the marketing noise. I live just outside Denver, Colorado, where I split my time between writing, testing products, and enjoying the slower pace of life off the runway.
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