Radiator opinion

[NikP]

I'm looking for thoughts on the stock radiator supporting a 5.3L Vortec. I really don't want to buy one but if I must I will. Crap what's another $300-$500 at this point right?

 

[riderjgs]

Don't know about a Vortec but a stock radiator is working fine in my 350 SBC/Toyota 4spd/Ranger overdrive combo, even with no shroud. I did have it redone at a shop and used a big block pickup fan clutch, which locks up tighter and provides more air. Been in for four years now and taken me to CA and back, over the Kokepelli Trail, Schofield Pass and Taylor Pass and a bunch of other places with no signs of overheating.

 

[scrapdaddy]

I'm with Riderjgs, ran the stock rad. with my old small block, in the 40 for years, no problems. I did buy an alum. one for the 5.3, really don't know why, other than getting both inlet and outlet on the same side.

 

[chevurai]

I have a SBC and a 700r4 trans in my 55. I bought a radiator for a fj62 from Radiator Barn and installed with minimal brackets using the stock body mount nuts. No cooling problems.