Performance Radiator for Chevrolet Caprice (1971-1990)

High-Capacity Performance Radiator for 1971-1990 Chevrolet Caprice

Direct Cooling Solution: Replaces the restrictive and aging factory brass radiator with a high-efficiency 3-row aluminum unit to lower coolant temperatures and prevent engine heat soak.

The Stock Caprice Thermal Weakness

Factory 1971-1990 Chevrolet Caprice models were equipped with traditional copper-brass radiators that, over decades of heat cycling, suffer from degraded solder joints, core scale buildup, and structural fatigue. Furthermore, the OEM mechanical clutch fans are notorious for severe parasitic drag on the water pump pulley, robbing the engine of horsepower while failing to pull sufficient cubic feet per minute (CFM) of air at low RPMs. This leads to rampant heat soak, fluctuating temperature gauges in stop-and-go traffic, and a high risk of boil-overs during prolonged idling or hot climate cruising.

The Engineering Solution

This cooling upgrade integrates a 3-row, TIG-welded aluminum core measuring 16 6/7" high by 28 1/4" wide to maximize thermal transfer efficiency and fluid capacity. Unlike heavy factory brass, the high-density aluminum tube-and-fin design dissipates heat rapidly. To guarantee consistent airflow regardless of engine speed, the system replaces the factory mechanical fan setup with an aluminum shroud and dual 12-inch electric fans. Spinning 10 plastic blades at 2,250 RPM with a 12.70-amp draw, these fans pull a combined 1730 CFM across the core. The unit features a saddle mount design and an integrated transmission oil cooler (φ32*215*G1/4) to stabilize fluid temps for both automatic and manual applications.

Technical Specifications

Compatibility

• 1971-1990 Chevrolet Caprice (Automatic Transmission)
• 1971-1990 Chevrolet Caprice (Manual Transmission)

The Chevrolet Muscle Caliber

Whether you are restoring a classic B-Body for highway cruising or building a high-horsepower street machine, maintaining rigorous temperature control is non-negotiable. This 3-row aluminum radiator and dual-fan package ensures your Caprice holds steady operating temps, protecting your engine block from thermal stress while freeing up horsepower previously lost to mechanical fan drag.