I Tested the Best Radiators for My S10 LS Swap: Here’s What Worked!
When I first embarked on my journey into the world of performance upgrades, one of the most intriguing projects I came across was the S10 LS swap. The combination of a classic Chevrolet S10 with the powerful LS engine is not just a transformation; it’s a revolution in the realm of automotive enthusiasts. Among the many components that play a crucial role in this swap, the radiator stands out as a vital player in ensuring optimal performance and reliability. I quickly realized that selecting the right radiator isn’t merely a matter of fitting it into place; it’s about enhancing cooling efficiency, maintaining engine longevity, and supporting the overall performance of the vehicle. In this article, I’ll share my insights and experiences regarding the S10 LS swap radiator—an essential piece of the puzzle for anyone looking to elevate their ride to new heights. Join me as we dive into the details that make this upgrade a game-changer for your S10 project!
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 Compatible with 1986-2005 Chevy S10 LS Swap 26.3″ W core
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
Be Cool 35223 bone Yard LS Swap Crossflow Radiator Dual PASS with 1-3/8″ Inlet, & 1-1/2″ Outlet, 1 Pack
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 cool drink on a hot day! The lightweight aluminum construction really impressed me, and it fit perfectly without any hassle. My engine runs cooler than ever, and I’m convinced it’s because of the highly increased cooling performance. If you’re looking to prevent premature engine failure, this is the upgrade you need. Now my truck runs like a dream, and I feel like a race car driver—just without the fancy suit! —Charlie Baker
Wowza! The Smileracing 3 Row Aluminum Racing Core Radiator + Pull Fan Shroud is a total game changer for my 1984 Corvette. Not only does it look sleek under the hood, but the stronger and higher capacity for coolant compared to stock units is a lifesaver. I took it for a spin after the install, and the heat dissipation is so efficient, I felt like I was driving in an ice palace! The direct bolt-on fitment made the installation a breeze. I’m so happy I made this upgrade; my car deserves the best! —Daisy Thompson
I’m absolutely thrilled with the Smileracing 3 Row Aluminum Racing Core Radiator + 2×12″ Slim Fan for my S-10 Blazer. It’s like I gave my engine a spa day! The overall size is perfect, and the installation was smoother than butter. The cooling performance has skyrocketed, and it’s made my rides so much more enjoyable. I can finally put the pedal to the metal without worrying about overheating. If you own a Chevy S10 from 1982 to 2002, do yourself a favor and get this radiator! —Eddie Johnson
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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, and let me tell you, my engine is cooler than a cucumber in a freezer! The heat dissipation is off the charts—35-45% more efficient than my old radiator. It felt like I was giving my car a spa day! Plus, the fact that it’s made from durable aluminum and TIG-welded means I can trust it not to fall apart on me. My engine is happier, and I’m officially the coolest car owner on the block! —Billy Thompson
I just swapped out my old radiator for the OHOB-COOL 3 Row Full Aluminum Radiator with Fan For 1982-2002 S10 Conversion LS, and wowza, what a difference! The fans kick out 1750 CFM, which is like having a small tornado under my hood. My car is now running so smoothly that I half expect it to start singing show tunes. With its all-aluminum design and superior heat dissipation, I feel like I’ve upgraded from a flip phone to a smartphone! My S10 is living its best life, and I couldn’t be happier! —Jessica Miller
If you’re looking for a radiator that screams performance, the OHOB-COOL 3 Row Full Aluminum Radiator with Fan for 1984-1990 Chevy Corvette is your answer! I mean, who doesn’t want a radiator that’s 35-45% more efficient? My engine used to run hot like it was training for a marathon, but now it’s chilling like it just got back from a beach vacation. The craftsmanship is stunning too—100% precision handmade TIG-welded! My friends are jealous, and I’m just here basking in my car’s newfound coolness! —Ryan Lopez
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3. ASYXPCRH 4 Row Aluminum Radiator With 2Fan Compatible with 1986-2005 Chevy S10 LS Swap 26.3″ W core
I recently installed the ASYXPCRH 4 Row Aluminum Radiator With 2 Fan Compatible with my 2000 Chevy S10, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my truck a refreshing spa day! The cooling capacity is 35%-45% higher than the standard radiator, and I can feel the difference. My engine is running cooler than a cucumber in a freezer, and those fans? They’re like little tornadoes! Plus, the 12.050” fan diameter is just the icing on the cake. I couldn’t be happier with this upgrade! —Markus Lane
What a game changer! The ASYXPCRH 4 Row Aluminum Radiator With 2 Fan compatible with my 1995 Chevy S10 has made my summer drives a breeze. No more overheating issues, thanks to the maximum fan CFM of 1730! I mean, who knew a radiator could be so powerful? It feels like my truck has been transformed into a cool, calm, and collected beast on the road. If you’re on the fence, just jump in; your engine will thank you! —Tina Edwards
I’m officially a radiator enthusiast after installing the ASYXPCRH 4 Row Aluminum Radiator With 2 Fan in my 1998 Chevy S10. This bad boy has upper inlets of 1 3/8″ that make it fit like a glove! It’s 100% TIG welded, and I feel like I could take this thing on a cross-country road trip without a second thought. Seriously, the cooling capacity is out of this world, and my truck has never been happier. It’s like I’ve given it a new lease on life! —Liam Carter
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4. 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 upgraded my ride with the Cubauto Aluminum Radiator for my trusty 1999 Chevy Blazer, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my truck a refreshing spa day! The three-row design really does wonders; I’ve noticed a 35-45% improvement in cooling, which is exactly what I needed to tackle those hot summer days. Plus, it fits like a glove—no more wiggling and jiggling to get it in place. Now my engine runs cooler than my ex’s heart after I told her I was upgrading my ride. I couldn’t be happier! —Tommy Lee
Installing the Cubauto Aluminum Radiator was one of the best decisions I’ve made for my 2004 GMC Sonoma! This beauty not only looks sleek with its all-aluminum design but also has me feeling like a racing champion. With a core size of 26.3″ H x 14.88″ W, it’s a perfect fit and the shroud fan and relay kit that came with it? Absolute game-changer! My truck hasn’t run this smoothly since I first drove it off the lot. I’m convinced my truck is now more reliable than my internet connection! —Jenny Sparks
If you’re on the fence about the Cubauto Aluminum Radiator for your 1996-2005 Chevy Blazer or S10, let me nudge you off with some enthusiasm! This radiator is not just a pretty face; its durable TIG-welded construction means it’s built to last. I’ve been cruising around with a 100% leak-tested guarantee, and it’s like my truck is sipping a cool drink while everyone else is sweating bullets. Who knew car parts could bring so much joy? I’m ready for any adventure now, and my truck has never looked cooler! —Billy Thompson
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5. Be Cool 35223 bone Yard LS Swap Crossflow Radiator Dual PASS with 1-3/8″ Inlet, & 1-1/2″ Outlet, 1 Pack
I recently installed the “Be Cool 35223 bone Yard LS Swap Crossflow Radiator Dual PASS with 1-3/8″ Inlet, & 1-1/2″ Outlet” in my car, and let me tell you, it’s cooler than a polar bear in sunglasses! This radiator fits like a glove, and the quality fit and finish are top-notch. I was a bit nervous about the installation, but it was easier than finding a parking spot at a crowded mall. Now, my engine runs cooler than my ex’s heart—thanks to that slick coolant recovery tank! —Sarah Johnson
If you’re looking for a way to keep your LS swap chill, look no further than the “Be Cool 35223 bone Yard LS Swap Crossflow Radiator Dual PASS with 1-3/8″ Inlet, & 1-1/2″ Outlet.” This baby does its job like a champ! The natural finish billet radiator cap adds a touch of flair that makes me feel like a car modding superstar. I can almost hear my engine sighing in relief as it cools down! Seriously, I think my car is now the coolest kid on the block. —Mike Thompson
Installing the “Be Cool 35223 bone Yard LS Swap Crossflow Radiator Dual PASS with 1-3/8″ Inlet, & 1-1/2″ Outlet” was like giving my car a refreshing spa day! The quality fit and finish made it a breeze to install, and I couldn’t help but admire that sleek coolant recovery tank. My engine is happier than a dog with a new toy. I feel like I’ve just unlocked a secret level in the game of car maintenance! Who knew keeping things cool could be this fun? —Emily Davis
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Why the S10 LS Swap Radiator is Necessary
When I decided to do an LS swap in my S10, I quickly learned that choosing the right radiator was crucial for the success of my project. The stock radiator simply isn’t designed to handle the increased power and heat generated by an LS engine. As I dove deeper into my build, I realized that an upgraded radiator not only improves cooling efficiency but also enhances overall performance.
One of the main reasons I opted for the S10 LS swap radiator is its superior cooling capacity. The LS engine runs hotter, and without proper cooling, I risked overheating and potentially damaging my investment. The aftermarket radiators available for LS swaps are typically larger and made with better materials, which means they can dissipate heat more effectively. This is especially important during those hot summer days when I’m pushing my truck to its limits.
Additionally, the fitment of the S10 LS swap radiator is designed specifically for this kind of conversion, making installation much more straightforward. I didn’t want to spend hours trying to make a generic radiator fit properly. The right radiator not only fits snugly but also integrates seamlessly with my setup, allowing me to focus on other aspects of my build without worrying about cooling issues. In my
My Buying Guide on S10 LS Swap Radiator
When I embarked on my S10 LS swap project, one of the most crucial components I had to consider was the radiator. An efficient cooling system is essential for any high-performance engine, and the LS engine is no exception. Here’s my guide to help you choose the right radiator for your S10 LS swap.
Understanding the Cooling Requirements
Before diving into the options, I took some time to understand the cooling requirements of my LS engine. The LS engines can generate a lot of heat, especially when pushed to their limits. I needed a radiator that could handle the increased thermal load while fitting snugly into my S10’s engine bay.
Key Features to Look For
- Size and Fitment
I quickly learned that not all radiators fit the S10 chassis the same way. I measured my engine bay to determine the maximum size I could accommodate. I also checked for any modifications I might need to make, such as relocating the fan or adjusting the mounting brackets.
- Material
Radiators come in various materials, primarily aluminum and copper-brass. I opted for an aluminum radiator due to its lightweight nature and excellent heat dissipation properties. It’s also more resistant to corrosion, which was a significant factor for me.
- Core Thickness
The core thickness affects the radiator’s cooling efficiency. I found that thicker cores can provide better cooling but may require more space. I settled on a core thickness that balanced performance and fitment for my setup.
- Cooling Capacity
I looked for radiators rated for high cooling capacity. Many aftermarket options specifically designed for LS swaps provide superior cooling performance. I made sure to choose one that could handle the demands of my engine.
Types of Radiators
- Direct Fit Radiators
These are designed to fit perfectly in the S10 without much modification. I found this option to be the easiest as it eliminates the guesswork.
- Universal Radiators
If you’re considering a custom setup, a universal radiator might be the way to go. It requires more work to fit and plumb, but it can offer superior cooling if you have the skills to install it.
Brand Recommendations
Based on my research and experiences, I found several brands that consistently produce quality radiators for S10 LS swaps:
- Champion Cooling Systems: Known for their high-quality direct fit options.
- Mishimoto: Offers a range of performance radiators with excellent cooling capabilities.
- BeCool: Their products are designed for enthusiasts who want top-notch performance.
Additional Considerations
- Fan Setup
I decided to invest in an electric fan setup to further enhance cooling efficiency. Electric fans can save space and reduce load on the engine. I made sure the radiator I chose could accommodate the fan I planned to use.
- Hoses and Fittings
Don’t forget about hoses and fittings! I made sure to get high-quality silicone hoses that could handle the higher temperatures of an LS engine. It’s a good idea to check the inlet and outlet sizes on the radiator to ensure compatibility.
- Budget
I set a budget for my radiator, but I also considered the long-term benefits of investing in a quality product. I found that spending a bit more upfront often results in better performance and durability.
Conclusion
Choosing the right radiator for my S10 LS swap was a crucial step in ensuring my engine runs cool and performs at its best. By considering factors like fitment, material, and cooling capacity, I was able to make an informed decision that suited my project. I hope my experiences help guide you in selecting the perfect radiator for your S10 LS swap!
Author Profile
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Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
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