Radiator and Cooling Fan for GMC Sonoma (1996-2004) 4.3L

High-Efficiency 4-Row Aluminum Radiator & Fan Shroud Kit for 1996-2004 GMC Sonoma

What it Does: The 4-row aluminum radiator cooling fan kit replaces the failure-prone factory cooling assembly on the 1996-2004 GMC Sonoma to maximize thermal transfer and eliminate engine overheating under heavy load.

The Stock GMC Sonoma Thermal Bottleneck

The factory cooling system on the GMT325 Sonoma utilizes an undersized, lightweight core sealed by crimped composite plastic end tanks and assisted by an engine-driven mechanical clutch fan. Over repeated heat cycles, the OEM plastic tanks degrade, embrittle, and hairline crack along the crimp seam, inducing sudden coolant loss. Furthermore, aging thermal fan clutches slip under severe duty, choking airflow across the core at low speeds and subjecting the Vortec 4300 (L35/LU3) cast-iron block to destructive cylinder head heat soak.

The Engineering Solution

This direct-fit replacement system eliminates OEM failure points using an all-aluminum 4-row crossflow design featuring 100% TIG-welded tanks and a furnace-brazed multi-louvered fin core. Designed to supersede OEM cross-references DPI1826 and CU1826, the expanded core surface area provides superior heat rejection compared to stock. A tailored, lightweight aluminum shroud houses dual 12V electric cooling fans that draw maximum CFM continuously, ensuring rapid thermal stabilization regardless of engine RPM during slow crawl conditions or stop-and-go hauling.

Technical Specifications

Compatibility

• 1996-2004 GMC Sonoma (SL, SLE, SLS) 4.3L V6

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this fit the GMT325 Sonoma?
Yes, this is a direct fit for the 1996-2004 GMC Sonoma equipped with the Vortec 4.3L V6 engine.

Do the electric fans integrate with the factory electrical harness?
The fans include basic pigtail leads and require an appropriate 12V relay harness and thermostatic switch for automated operation.

The GMC Workhorse Standard

Engineered for sustained towing capacity and high-load hauling, this rugged all-aluminum cooling assembly safeguards your drivetrain against extreme underhood thermal stress on worksites and highways alike.