Best Radiator Options for S10 LS Swap?

I’m currently in the middle of an LS swap on my Chevrolet S10, and I’m at the point where I need to decide on a radiator. I know that cooling is super important, especially with the increased horsepower and potential heat generated by the LS engine.

What to Look For:

  • Cooling Capacity: The radiator needs to handle more heat than the stock one. Are there any specific brands or models that people recommend?
  • Fitment: Since this is an S10, I’m concerned about dimensions. I want something that fits well without too much modification.
  • Material: Aluminum radiators are typically lighter and more effective than copper, but are there any downsides?

FAQs:

  1. Can I use the stock S10 radiator? - I’ve heard mixed opinions about this.
  2. Do I need a specific fan setup? - What works best to get optimal cooling with the LS engine?
  3. What about electric versus mechanical fans? - Pros and cons?

If you’ve done this swap or have any suggestions for radiators that work well with the LS engine in an S10, I would love to hear your thoughts! Any installation tips would also be very helpful. Thanks in advance for your help!

I’m currently doing an S10 LS swap too! From what I’ve researched, a dual-pass radiator can be a great option for optimal cooling. They tend to provide better cooling efficiency compared to single-pass models. Anyone have experience with these?

I’ve used a dual-pass radiator on my swap, and it’s worked wonders. Just make sure you have enough space for it, as it can be a tight fit in the S10.

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I’ve also found that aluminum radiators are pretty effective. They’re lightweight and provide good heat dissipation. The only downside is they can be a bit pricey. Worth it for performance, though!

Exactly! And they also tend to resist corrosion better than copper ones. Just keep in mind to pair it with a good fan setup.

What about electric vs. mechanical fans? I’ve heard that electric fans can save space and offer better cooling when needed. Thoughts?

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I’m all for electric fans! They kick on when needed, which helps control temps better. Just ensure you have a good wiring setup to prevent any issues.

I installed a 3-row copper radiator in my S10. It handles my LS just fine, though I do find it a bit heavier. It works well, though, especially for daily driving. Anyone else use a copper unit?

I have! While it’s heavier, it retains heat well. Just maintain good flow in your cooling system and you’re golden! Plus, they’re often cheaper than good aluminum options.

I’m looking at the Mishimoto radiators. They seem to get good reviews and fit many builds well. Has anyone tried one?

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Yes! I used a Mishimoto, and it was great. But make sure you get the right size for your S10. Measuring twice is key to avoid any fitment issues.

What about those universal radiator kits? Are they worth it for an S10 swap, or is it safer to go with a specific model?

Honestly, universal kits can work, but they often require a lot of tweaking. If you can find a direct fit, go that route to save time and hassle.

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I’ve heard that some aftermarket radiators have issues with their welds leaking over time. Has anyone experienced this?

I had a problem with my first aftermarket radiator leaking. Buyer beware; you get what you pay for. Check reviews before buying!

Just remember, no matter what you choose, cooling performance is vital. It can really make or break your engine performance. Plus, who wants to overheat on a road trip?

Haha, exactly! Just make sure to properly size your radiator, and you’re good to go. Can’t wait to see what everyone ends up picking!

When considering radiator options for an S10 LS swap, an aluminum radiator is a great choice for both weight and cooling efficiency.

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Absolutely! Additionally, you should check the mounting points because they may need some adjustment during installation.

Make sure to get a radiator with a properly placed inlet and outlet to match the LS engine. It’s crucial for ensuring good coolant circulation.