If you’re the owner of a Chevy Silverado and you’re looking to upgrade your radiator, you’ll want to check out this list of the top best upgrades available. We’ve compiled some of the best options on the market, so you can be sure your truck will stay running cool no matter what. Whether you’re looking for an all-aluminum radiator or one with extra cooling fins, we’ve got you covered. So take a look at our list and find the perfect radiator upgrade for your needs!
Click here to skip to our recommended pick!
- To allow room for the occurring thermal expansion, OE clevis pins are included where it is required
- To reduce stress on the headers and prevent warping during thermal expansion, stress cuts are made to the side rails
- Increased tube wall thickness for durability and longevity
- Manufactured with high quality material for extended durability
- Subject to aging and endurance testing to validate performance under extreme weather conditions
- Value for money: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
- Made of High Quality Full T-6061 Aluminum Construction
- Light Weight Direct Bolt-On OEM Fitment or Replacement
- High Performance Racing Spec. 2-Row Racing Design
- Improves Cooling by 35% to 45% Temperature
- Overall Size: 34" x 19" x 2.25" / Core Size: 28.25" x 18.75" x 1" / Inlet: 1.25" / Outlet: 1.5
- Value for money: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
- Full T-6061 Aluminum Construction, 100% Welded By TIG
- Core size: 33-7/8" x 17-3/5"; Overall size: 39-4/5" x 19"
- Inlet: 1 2/5", Outlet: 1 3/5"
- Build-in Transmission Cooler (thread size is G3/8-19)
- Value for money: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
- Mishimoto 2014+ Compatible with Chevy Silverado 1500 V8 Aluminum Radiator
- Manufacturer Part Number: MMRAD-K2-14
- Made from the highest quality materials. Built to outperform and outlast the competition.
- Designed for easy installation. Hassle free guarantee.
- Value for money: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
- 4 Row Core Full T-5057 Aluminum Radiator. All our products are 100 percent tested for quality assurance.
- Compitable for 96-97 Chevy P30 / GMC P3500 4.3L V6 ; Compitable for 92-95 Chevy/GMC Suburban 5.7L V8 ; Compitable for 88-95 Chevy/GMC C/K Pick-Up 5.0 / 5.7L V8 ; Compitable for 94-95 Chevy/GMC C/K Pick-Up 4.3L V6 ; Compitable for 89-91 Chevy R/V Series 5.7L V8 ; Compitable for 94 Chevy Blazer - Full Size 5.7L V8. - Please check the vehicle fitment before you buy!
- Core Size: 17 1/4 inch Height x 28 1/4 inch Width ; Overall Size: 20 1/4 inch Height x 33 7/8 inch Width ; Inlet Diameter: 1 5/16 inch On Driver Side ; Outlet Diameter: 1 9/16 inch On Passenger Side.
- Value for money: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Our Overall #1 Rated Pick
Spectra Complete Radiator
Innovative engineering, manufacturing technology and quality control ensure that Spectra Premium radiators meet or exceed the performance of the original equipment radiators they replace. That extends to all components, including engine and transmission. The complete radiator offers maximum cooling efficiency. No modifications required for proper fit.
If you’re looking for a premium upgrade, consider the Spectra Complete Radiator, which features a copper and brass core for maximum durability. It also offers a perfect fit for your 6.7 Cummins engine and has been engineered for maximum cooling efficiency.
Silverado Radiator Upgrade Benefits
Today, engines are developing at an incredible rate. While car manufacturers are implementing new technology to increase horsepower and fuel economy, they tend to overlook other very important factors. One of the major downsides of this is that vehicles heat up faster than ever before. To reduce engine temperature, more and more companies are coming out with upgraded radiators for their Silverado models.
If you are in the market for a new Silverado, or your current one is starting to overheat, it might be worth investing in an upgraded radiator. Not only will this keep your truck running cooler and more efficiently, but it can also extend the life of your engine.
There are a number of different radiators on the market that will fit your Chevy Silverado. When looking for a replacement, make sure to select one that is made specifically for your truck. There are many different sizes and shapes of radiators, so finding the correct one can be tricky. If you’re not sure which radiator is right for you, consult with a professional at a trusted automotive dealership.
One thing to keep in mind when upgrading your radiator is that you will also need to upgrade your cooling system. This includes the water pump, hoses, and fan. If you don’t have the proper equipment, your new radiator might not do much good.
If you are looking for a Silverado radiator upgrade, there are a few things to consider. First, make sure that the new radiator is compatible with your truck. Second, be sure to upgrade your entire cooling system for maximum efficiency. And finally, consult with a professional to find the best solution for your needs. With the right upgrades, your Silverado will run cooler and more efficiently than ever before.
Best Chevy Silverado Performance Radiator Upgrade
The radiator is an essential component of the engine cooling system. The stock radiator may not be able to handle additional horsepower and torque that you add to your Silverado. The best way to upgrade your radiator is by installing a high-performance unit from a reputable manufacturer.
There are several benefits of upgrading your Silverado radiator. A high-performance radiator can help improve cooling performance and protect your engine against overheating. It can also improve throttle response and fuel economy. Additionally, a high-performance radiator can help extend the life of your engine.
If you are looking for the best possible performance out of your Silverado, then consider upgrading your radiator. There are a number of great options available on the market, so be sure to do your research before making a purchase.
With so many great options available, it can be tough to decide which radiator is right for you. But with so many great choices on the market today, there’s sure to be one that’s perfect for your needs.
Here are Top Best Chevy Silverado Radiator Upgrade to choose:
The top best product [hide]
Spectra Complete Radiator CU2370
DNA Motoring RA-SILVERADO99-2 2-Row Full Aluminum Radiator
Primecooling 3 Row Core Aluminum Radiator
Mishimoto For Chevy Silverado
ColQuee 4 Row Aluminum Radiator
Why you should upgrade your Chevy Silverado to a performance version
Chevy Silverados are known for their toughness and durability. However, even the strongest truck could use some improvement in the performance department. That’s where upgrading to a performance version comes in.
When you are looking to upgrade your Chevy Silverado, the best option that you have is to upgrade it to a performance version. There are a few different reasons why this is the best option, and we will go over them in detail below.
- The first reason that you should upgrade to a performance version of the Silverado is that it will give you better performance overall. The engine will be able to run more efficiently and produce more power, which means that you will be able to get up to speed faster and with less effort. Additionally, the chassis of the truck will be reinforced, meaning that it can handle more weight and stress without issue. This is perfect for those who frequently haul large loads or drive in challenging conditions.
- The next reason that you should upgrade your Chevy Silverado to a performance version is because it will make the truck more efficient. This means less power wasted and more power for driving, which can boost your fuel economy. You will also be able to maintain speed on hills without having to struggle with the wheel or lose any speed. This makes it perfect not just for long trips but also for daily use.
- You will have better control of the car if you choose to upgrade your vehicle to a performance version, especially when turning corners or braking. The upgraded chassis includes suspension that is designed specifically for high-performance driving, meaning that this type of driving will become much easier than before with standard models of this truck.
- Last but certainly not least, upgrading to a performance version of the Chevy Silverado will give you an improved look and feel. The truck will have a more aggressive stance and a sportier design that will make it stand out from the rest. If you are looking for a truck that can handle anything you throw at it while also looking good, then a performance version is definitely the way to go.
So, if you are looking to upgrade your Chevy Silverado, be sure to consider upgrading it to a performance version. You won’t regret it!
How to Install Chevy Silverado Radiator
The radiator is an essential part of the cooling system in a car. It functions to cool the engine by transferring heat from it into the air that passes through it.
Since there are many types of Silverado Radiators, it is better to research your particular vehicle. For example, a 1999 Chevy Silverado will be different from a 2006 model. In this article we will concentrate on the 1999-2006 Chevrolet Silverados with both 4.3L and 5.3L Vortec engines . If you have a different year or engine type, please seek help elsewhere if needed!
Chevy Silverado Radiators come in two main styles: aluminum and plastic/composite tanks with an aluminum core. Each have their own pros and cons but each fit perfectly fine for most needs while driving around town or off-roading your Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
Installation is fairly easy and can be done within a couple hours. In order to install your Silverado radiator, you will need:
- Socket set
- 3/8″ drive ratchet
- 3/8″ drive extensions (one of these needs to fit your crankshaft bolt)
- 1/2″ drive socket (needs to fit your transmission drain plug)
- New transmission fluid if needed (if changing the radiator on a 1999-2006 with a 5 speed manual or a 2003 with an automatic). Check the owner’s manual for how many quarts are needed before you start! We also recommend checking the torque on the fill plug as well! If you have lost this, there should be one in the glove box somewhere.
- T-55 Torx socket head
- Channel locks
- Pliers
- Flat blade screwdriver
- Wire brush
- Radiator flush and coolant (optional)
- New thermostat (optional)
- gasket sealant (optional)
- Silicone sealant (optional)
Now that we have the necessary tools, let’s get started!
Replacing a Chevy Silverado radiator is not difficult if you follow these steps:
Step 1.
Remove the upper shroud. On some models there are two screws on the top and one at the rear of the shroud. Others may have four screws – two at the top and two at the bottom. Once these are removed, gently pull the shroud away from the radiator and set aside.
Step 2.
Remove the bolts holding the fan to the water pump. There are two bolts on the left and right sides of the pump, both holding the fan in place. Using a socket set, loosen these bolts, but make sure to catch them when they fall out or else you may lose them!
Step 3.
Remove electric connectors from fan motor if needed.
Step 4.
Position a box end wrench over the water pump pulley bolt and turn clockwise until it loosens. Be careful! The pulley will come off quickly and is under some tension due to the serpentine belt attached…it could spring loose causing injury so be careful! Just take your time and hold it with your hand for safety. If done safely, remove the belt by pushing down on one side while pulling up on the other.
Step 5.
Remove the serpentine belt from its holders if needed. Now you should be able to pull it off!
Step 6.
Remove the fan, spacer and water pump pulley from the engine block. You may need an extension spanner for this step if your ratchet isn’t long enough. Make sure to hold onto all these parts! This is why you needed a box end wrench in step 4 – it needs to be big enough to get over the area where the pulley goes on top of the water pump. Use your hands or pliers if needed – don’t lose anything here!
Step 7.
Take out any brackets holding radiator in place if present Some cars will have these but others won’t so it’s best to check. If brackets are present, remove the bolts using a socket set and take out the old radiator.
Step 8.
Clean gasket surfaces on engine block and radiator. Use a wire brush if needed to get rid of any build-up or corrosion on these surfaces – you want them to be as clean as possible for a good seal!
Step 9.
Install new radiator using the same brackets (if present) and bolts. Make sure everything lines up properly before tightening anything down!
Step 10.
Reattach fan, spacer and water pump pulley using the old bolt from step 4. Reinstall belt by following these steps in reverse. When putting the belt back on, make it is in the correct position according to your owner’s manual. Most newer cars will have a diagram in the service manual to show you how it should be oriented.
Step 11.
Reattach electric connectors to fan motor if needed.
Step 12.
Reinstall upper shroud by putting all the bolts back in – make sure that this is snug but not too tight! You don’t want it touching your radiator!
Step 13.
Fill with coolant and check for leaks, fix any issues if found before driving car. Fill up with new coolant when necessary to keep it fresh and clean, making sure to use a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water in most cases. If you were changing your thermostat as well, remember to fill up your overflow reservoir before starting your car.
Step 14.
Test drive and enjoy your new radiator! When driving, make sure to stay at a constant speed with the AC off for 10-15 minutes before shutting engine off to let it cool down. This will give you an accurate reading on your new thermostat. If it is too hot or too cold after this, adjust accordingly if possible – but remember that each car may do best with a different temperature setting according to the manufacturer’s specs!
If your Chevy Silverado has plastic tanks, choose a radiator made of all metal so you don’t have to worry about the tanks leaking. If you are not used to working on engines, take your Chevy Silverado into a mechanic or call for assistance with removing the radiator.