Author Topic: radiator swap.  (Read 2688 times)

Offline lpapa15

  • Newbie
  • Posts: 56
  • 1979 k10 silverado
radiator swap.
« on: November 15, 2010, 09:30:00 am »
Can an 85 c20 radiator replace my 79 k10 radiator?  

Offline Dr_Snooz

  • Junior Member
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  • Posts: 684
  • "I like to take hammers, and just break stuff"
Re: radiator swap.
« Reply #1 on: November 15, 2010, 12:49:41 pm »
Well, in my limited experience, not even the direct-fit replacement radiators you buy specifically for your truck from Rock Auto will fit. Make sure that the width and height are roughly equivalent. Make sure the inlet and outlet are in the same spot and are the same diameter. Otherwise, you'll have to find special radiator hoses like I did. Thickness is the biggest consideration. Here in hellish hot Central California, I buy the thickest radiator I can. Also make sure the trans lines will bolt up. You may have to zip tie the fan shroud on like I did, but you can make probably it work.
1989 Chevy Suburban V-2500, 5.7L, TH400

1990 Chevy C-3500 Ext. Cab, 7.4L, 3L80

2009 Chevy Silverado 1500 WT 4WD, 4.8L, 4L60