High Performance Radiator for Chevy GMC Truck C/K 1500 2500 3500 Pickup Suburban (1988-1999) 5.0L 5.7L

High-Capacity 3-Row Aluminum Radiator for 1988-1999 Chevrolet, GMC C/K Trucks (SBC / GMT400)

Direct-fit cooling upgrade: Replaces the factory plastic-tank radiator with a full AA5052 aluminum, 3-row core assembly and electric fan conversion to lower coolant temperatures and prevent thermal failure.

The Stock GMT400 Cooling System Limitations

The factory cooling system on the GMT400 platform relies heavily on crimped plastic end tanks and a restrictive core design. Under sustained load—such as heavy towing, plowing, or low-speed crawling—the stock configuration fails to shed heat rapidly. This leads to severe heat soak, elevated coolant temperatures, and increased system pressure that commonly causes the OE plastic tanks to fatigue, leak, and crack at the crimp seams. Furthermore, the factory mechanical clutch fan robs parasitic horsepower from the engine and struggles to pull adequate CFM at low engine RPMs.

The Engineering Solution

This high-performance package eliminates the plastic end tanks in favor of fully TIG-welded, aviation-grade AA5052 aluminum construction. The 3-row core features a dense tube-and-fin design, drastically increasing fluid capacity and maximizing heat exchange surface area for a 35% to 45% thermal efficiency boost. To optimize airflow dynamics, this kit replaces the parasitic mechanical fan with an aluminum shroud housing dual 12-inch electric slim fans delivering a combined 1,600 CFM. Regulated by a precise 180°F-on / 165°F-off thermostat relay system threaded directly into the manifold or water neck, it guarantees consistent airflow at all vehicle speeds while reducing engine drag. The 1.25-inch inlet and 1.55-inch outlet ensure restriction-free fluid routing.

Technical Specifications

Compatibility

• 1988-1999 Chevrolet C1500 5.0L
• 1988-1999 Chevrolet C1500 5.7L
• 1988-1999 Chevrolet C2500 5.0L
• 1988-1999 Chevrolet C2500 5.7L
• 1988-1994 Chevrolet C3500 5.7L
• 1988-1999 Chevrolet K1500 5.0L
• 1988-1999 Chevrolet K1500 5.7L
• 1988-1999 Chevrolet K2500 5.0L
• 1988-1999 Chevrolet K2500 5.7L
• 1988-1994 Chevrolet K3500 5.7L
• 1988-1999 GMC C1500 5.0L
• 1988-1999 GMC C1500 5.7L
• 1988-1999 GMC C2500 5.7L
• 1988-1999 GMC C2500 5.0L
• 1988-1994 GMC C3500 5.7L
• 1988-1999 GMC K1500 5.0L
• 1988-1999 GMC K1500 5.7L
• 1988-1999 GMC K2500 5.7L
• 1988-1999 GMC K2500 5.0L
• 1988-1994 GMC K3500 5.7L
• 1992-1993 Chevrolet C1500 Suburban 5.7L
• 1992-1993 Chevrolet C2500 Suburban 5.7L
• 1992-1993 Chevrolet K1500 Suburban 5.7L
• 1992-1993 Chevrolet K2500 Suburban 5.7L
• 1992-1993 GMC C1500 Suburban 5.7L
• 1992-1993 GMC C2500 Suburban 5.7L
• 1992-1993 GMC K1500 Suburban 5.7L
• 1992-1993 GMC K2500 Suburban 5.7L

The Chevrolet, GMC Heavy-Duty Standard

Whether you are hauling a loaded trailer up steep grades, navigating demanding off-road trails, or daily driving your classic OBS rig, maintaining optimal operating temperatures is critical. This comprehensive cooling overhaul guarantees sustained thermal control, preventing overheating-induced engine damage and maximizing reliability under extreme conditions.