Champion 3-Row/Core Aluminum Radiators

The largest-selling radiator is the 3 Row design with automatic transmission cooler fitting many 1963-1990 GM passenger cars and trucks using a 28.25" core. In second place is the 1966 – 1974 Ford F-100 pickup truck with automatic transmission design. Completing the top three radiators is the Champion radiator design fitting 1965-1988 GM vehicles with 26.25" core and automatic transmission.

Champion radiators range in price from around $230 for a radiator only to over $800 for a complete kit with a shroud, electric fans, overflow tank, and wiring harness.

The 3 core aluminum radiator selection offered by Champion Cooling Systems uses three rows of 3/4 " tubes. This design is capable of keeping an engine with up to 800 horsepower cool with proper airflow. The aluminum construction provides the best dissipation of heat, allows more coolant capacity, and uses no epoxy for construction; only welded seams.

The first step in the installation process for a Champion radiator is to remove the old radiator if it is still installed. Next, the new radiator is lowered into place in the cradle. Then secure the radiator with mounting hardware, the shroud, or a support cover to the radiator support. If you are using an electric fan, it will need to be mounted to the radiator as well. Next, the upper and lower radiator hoses can be clamped to the radiator from the water pump and thermostat housing. If the vehicle has an automatic transmission, the fluid cooler lines are reconnected next. Then, the coolant overflow or recirculation tank is connected to the radiator. After confirming the correct radiator cap fits the radiator, the coolant can then be poured into the radiator. The engine coolant bleeding process can then begin with the engine running as well as checking the automatic transmission fluid level and topping off if necessary. The overflow tank can then be filled to the correct level, completing the installation process.