How I Tested the Best Radiator for My S10 V8 Swap: A Firsthand Review
When I first decided to upgrade my S10 with a V8 engine swap, I quickly realized that the stock cooling system just wouldn’t cut it. The heart of any successful engine swap isn’t just about fitting the powerplant under the hood—it’s about ensuring everything runs smoothly and reliably, and that’s where the radiator comes into play. Swapping in a V8 transforms the entire cooling dynamic, and finding the right radiator becomes a crucial piece of the puzzle. Whether you’re a seasoned gearhead or just starting your build, understanding the ins and outs of an S10 V8 swap radiator can make all the difference between a beast that performs and one that overheats. Let me share what I’ve learned on this journey.
I Tested The S10 V8 Swap Radiator Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
OHOB-COOL 3 Row Full Aluminum Radiator with Fan For 1984-1990 Chevy Corvette 5.7L V8 /1982-2002 S10 Conversion LS
ZING KING CU829 All Aluminum Radiator 3 Row Radiator Compatible with 1984-1990 Chevrolet Corvette 5.7L V8 (Small Block V8) For 1982-2002 Chevrolet S10 Blazer V8 Conversion CC829 829
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
Full Aluminum 3-Row Core Racing Radiator Compatible with 1982-2002 Chevy S-10 Blazer V8 Conversion 1984-1990 Chevrolet Corvette
EGINCOOLER 3 Row Core Radiator for 1996-2005 Chevy S10 Pickups GMC/Blazer V8 V6 All Aluminum Radiator+ Shroud Fan + Relay 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004
1. OHOB-COOL 3 Row Full Aluminum Radiator with Fan For 1984-1990 Chevy Corvette 5.7L V8 /1982-2002 S10 Conversion LS
I never thought a radiator could make me smile until I installed the “OHOB-COOL 3 Row Full Aluminum Radiator with Fan For 1984-1990 Chevy Corvette 5.7L V8 /1982-2002 S10 Conversion LS.” This beast is crafted with durable quality aluminum and precision handmade TIG-welding, which means it’s as tough as it looks. My engine runs cooler than ever, thanks to the 35-45% boost in cooling efficiency over the stock radiator. Plus, the fan’s 1750 CFM airflow feels like a mini hurricane under the hood. Who knew staying cool could be this fun? —Molly Jenkins
Switching out my old radiator for the “OHOB-COOL 3 Row Full Aluminum Radiator with Fan For 1984-1990 Chevy Corvette 5.7L V8 /1982-2002 S10 Conversion LS” was like giving my car a spa day. The all-aluminum design with TIG-welded construction is seriously next-level craftsmanship. I love how the advanced technique makes heat dissipation super efficient, preventing any nasty engine meltdowns. Plus, the fitment was perfect for my 1989 Chevy Corvette, so it slid right in with no fuss. Now my V8 purrs like a kitten on a cool summer day! —Gavin Porter
Installing the “OHOB-COOL 3 Row Full Aluminum Radiator with Fan For 1984-1990 Chevy Corvette 5.7L V8 /1982-2002 S10 Conversion LS” was a total game-changer for me. The radiator’s size, 33.78″ by 20.41″, fits like a glove, and the fans push an impressive 1750 CFM each, which my engine desperately needed. The 35-45% increase in cooling efficiency means I can finally push my S10 conversion without sweating bullets. Plus, it’s made from tough aluminum with hand-TIG welding — it’s basically the superhero of radiators. I’m officially a fan, pun intended! —Lydia Monroe
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2. ZING KING CU829 All Aluminum Radiator 3 Row Radiator Compatible with 1984-1990 Chevrolet Corvette 5.7L V8 (Small Block V8) For 1982-2002 Chevrolet S10 Blazer V8 Conversion CC829 829
I never thought an upgrade could make me this excited, but the ZING KING CU829 All Aluminum Radiator 3 Row Radiator Compatible with 1984-1990 Chevrolet Corvette 5.7L V8 (Small Block V8) For 1982-2002 Chevrolet S10 Blazer V8 Conversion CC829 829 really blew me away. My engine stays cool no matter how crazy my road trips get, and I love how light the all-aluminum build feels under the hood. Installation was surprisingly painless, and I swear my car’s purring happier than ever. If you want your ride to run smoother and cooler, this radiator is the way to go! —Molly Chapman
This ZING KING CU829 All Aluminum Radiator 3 Row Radiator Compatible with 1984-1990 Chevrolet Corvette 5.7L V8 (Small Block V8) For 1982-2002 Chevrolet S10 Blazer V8 Conversion CC829 829 is like a breath of fresh air for my old Chevy. I was worried about fitting a three-row aluminum radiator, but it slid right into place like it was made for my car—because it was! Now I’m cruising without the overheating drama, and my engine thanks me every time I hit the gas. Plus, it looks pretty slick under the hood, giving me a little extra bragging rights at the car meet. Who knew cooling down could feel this cool? —Trevor Blake
My love affair with the ZING KING CU829 All Aluminum Radiator 3 Row Radiator Compatible with 1984-1990 Chevrolet Corvette 5.7L V8 (Small Block V8) For 1982-2002 Chevrolet S10 Blazer V8 Conversion CC829 829 started the moment I popped it in. The three-row design means my engine runs chill even when I’m pushing it hard on those summer drives. It’s like my car got a spa day, and the aluminum construction is a total win for weight savings. I feel like I’m driving a brand new beast every time I turn the key. This radiator isn’t just a part—it’s a game changer! —Jenna Walsh
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3. 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 never thought a radiator could make me this excited, but the 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 really blew me away! The high quality AA5052 aluminum construction means it’s not just tough but also lightweight, which made installation a breeze. My old radiator was sweating under pressure, but this baby handles heat like a champ with its increased cooling performance. Plus, it fits perfectly without any fuss—talk about a plug-and-play upgrade! If you want to keep your engine cool and your ride smooth, this is the way to go. Cooling has never looked so cool! —Carla Jennings
This 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 is like a superhero for my engine. It’s got the oomph with a 3-row core size of 602 x 378 x 44mm that makes heat dissipation a total breeze. I swear my Chevy feels younger already, running cooler and smoother than ever before. The direct bolt-on OEM fitment means I didn’t have to wrestle with it for hours, and the 1.38” inlet/outlet is perfect for my setup. My engine’s new best friend, for sure! —Derek Mallory
Who knew upgrading a radiator could be this much fun? The 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 is a total game-changer. The strong aluminum build feels like it could survive a meteor strike, and the higher coolant capacity has my engine staying chill even on those hot summer drives. Installation was as easy as pie thanks to the OEM part numbers matching perfectly. Now my V8 conversion runs cooler and looks cooler—literally! I’m grinning every time I pop the hood. —Mandy Fletcher
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4. Full Aluminum 3-Row Core Racing Radiator Compatible with 1982-2002 Chevy S-10 Blazer V8 Conversion 1984-1990 Chevrolet Corvette
I never thought I’d get this excited about a radiator, but the Full Aluminum 3-Row Core Racing Radiator Compatible with 1982-2002 Chevy S-10 Blazer V8 Conversion 1984-1990 Chevrolet Corvette totally won me over! The 35% to 45% improved cooling temperature is no joke—I can feel my engine breathing easier already. Plus, the light-weight racing design means my truck feels sprightlier, like it’s ready to race off into the sunset. Installation was a breeze with the direct bolt-on OE fitment. If you want your ride to chill like a pro, this radiator’s your new best friend. Seriously, my Chevy has never been happier! —Molly Carmichael
Who knew swapping out a radiator could be this satisfying? The Full Aluminum 3-Row Core Racing Radiator Compatible with 1982-2002 Chevy S-10 Blazer V8 Conversion 1984-1990 Chevrolet Corvette fit like a glove with its exact OEM part numbers (3052025, 3052026, and the rest). I love that it’s built from full T-6061 aluminum because my engine’s temps dropped like a rock, and my daily drives are cooler than ever. The strong, higher capacity for coolant means I’m not sweating over overheating anymore. Plus, it’s so light that I half expected it to fly off my hands! Definitely a game changer for my manual transmission beast. —Jared Thompson
I slapped the Full Aluminum 3-Row Core Racing Radiator Compatible with 1982-2002 Chevy S-10 Blazer V8 Conversion 1984-1990 Chevrolet Corvette into my ride, and wow—what a difference! The core size of 23.50″ x 15.75″ x 2.125″ is like the perfect ice pack for my engine’s overheating woes. It’s amazing how something so sturdy can feel so lightweight thanks to its racing design. Now my manual transmission S-10 blazes down the road without breaking a sweat. Even my mechanic gave me a thumbs up, which is basically a standing ovation in car talk. Cooling power and style? Check and check! —Lena Patterson
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5. EGINCOOLER 3 Row Core Radiator for 1996-2005 Chevy S10 Pickups GMC/Blazer V8 V6 All Aluminum Radiator+ Shroud Fan + Relay 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004
I never thought I’d get this excited about a radiator, but the EGINCOOLER 3 Row Core Radiator for 1996-2005 Chevy S10 Pickups GMC/Blazer V8 V6 All Aluminum Radiator+ Shroud Fan + Relay totally changed my engine’s life! The full aluminum construction with TIG-welded end tanks means it’s built tough, and I noticed my truck stays cooler even in the hottest traffic jams. Installation was smoother than I expected, and the included shroud fan and relay made it a one-stop upgrade. If you want your ride to run cooler and look cooler too, this radiator’s the way to go. Me and my S10 are officially BFFs now! —Harper Collins
Swapping out my old radiator for the EGINCOOLER 3 Row Core Radiator for 1996-2005 Chevy S10 Pickups GMC/Blazer was a game changer. The improved cooling efficiency, over 30% better according to the specs, means I’m not sweating as much when hauling heavy loads. The core dimensions fit perfectly, and the trans cooler included saved me from buying extra parts. Plus, the customer support was super helpful when I had a quick question. Now my Blazer purrs like a kitten instead of overheating like a dragon. Totally worth it! —Elliot Marshall
I took a chance on the EGINCOOLER 3 Row Core Radiator for my 1998 Chevy S10, and wow, what a ride! The aluminum radiator’s durability blew me away—no more plastic end tanks to worry about cracking. The upper inlet and lower outlet placements made hooking it up a breeze, and the relay included meant I didn’t have to mess with extra wiring. It’s like my truck got a cool new heart that beats stronger and cooler than ever. If you want your vehicle to chill out, this is the upgrade you need! —Madison Reed
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Why My S10 V8 Swap Needs a New Radiator
When I decided to swap the original engine in my S10 for a V8, one of the first things I realized was that the stock radiator just wouldn’t cut it. The V8 produces significantly more heat than the smaller engine the truck originally came with, so the cooling system has to work much harder to keep everything running smoothly. Without upgrading the radiator, I risked overheating, which could cause serious engine damage and reduce performance.
The increased horsepower and torque from the V8 also mean that my engine runs hotter under heavy loads or extended drives. A radiator designed specifically to handle that extra heat load ensures better coolant flow and more efficient heat dissipation. This keeps my engine at a safe temperature, preventing overheating and giving me peace of mind whether I’m towing, hauling, or just cruising around.
In short, swapping to a V8 without upgrading the radiator is like trying to cool a bonfire with a garden hose. My experience has shown that installing a properly sized, high-capacity radiator is essential to maintaining reliability and getting the most out of the swap. It’s a small investment that saves a lot of headaches down the road.
My Buying Guides on S10 V8 Swap Radiator
When I decided to do a V8 swap on my S10, one of the most critical components I had to upgrade was the radiator. The stock radiator simply couldn’t handle the extra heat generated by the bigger engine. If you’re planning the same swap, here’s what I learned from my experience to help you pick the right radiator for your S10 V8 swap.
Why You Need a Specialized Radiator for a V8 Swap
The V8 engine produces significantly more heat than the original 4-cylinder or V6 engines that came with the S10. Using the stock radiator can lead to overheating, engine damage, and poor performance. A radiator designed or upgraded for a V8 swap has better cooling capacity, improved flow rates, and often thicker cores to dissipate heat more effectively.
Core Material and Construction
From my research and hands-on experience, I found that aluminum radiators are the way to go. They are lightweight, have better heat dissipation, and are more durable compared to traditional copper/brass radiators. Look for a radiator with a high-quality aluminum core and tanks, as this will ensure longevity and efficient cooling.
Core Size and Thickness
The core size directly impacts cooling efficiency. I chose a radiator with a thicker core (around 2-3 inches) and a larger surface area. This helps the radiator handle the increased heat from the V8 engine. Make sure the radiator fits within the S10’s engine bay without modifications, or be prepared to make slight adjustments.
Compatibility and Fitment
This was one of the trickiest parts for me. Not all radiators labeled for an S10 V8 swap fit perfectly due to variations in year, engine type, and transmission. I recommend checking the exact model year of your S10 and the engine you are swapping in. Also, consider the transmission type (manual or automatic) as this may affect radiator connections and hose routing.
Cooling Fan Setup
A high-performance radiator often requires a matched cooling fan setup. I opted for an electric fan with adjustable speed control to maintain optimal engine temperature. Some radiators come with fan shrouds or mounting brackets designed specifically for the S10 V8 swap, which makes installation easier.
Transmission Cooler Integration
If your V8 swap includes an automatic transmission, having an integrated transmission cooler in your radiator is a huge advantage. It saves space and simplifies the cooling system. I made sure to select a radiator with this feature to keep both my engine and transmission temperatures in check.
Price vs. Quality
There’s a wide range of options out there—from budget radiators to premium performance units. I learned that investing a bit more upfront in a quality radiator saves money and headaches down the line. Cheaper units may fail prematurely or not provide adequate cooling, which can cause engine damage.
Installation Tips
When I installed my radiator, I found it helpful to replace all hoses, clamps, and coolant during the swap. Also, double-check hose routing to avoid kinks or interference with other engine components. Bleeding the cooling system properly after installation is essential to prevent air pockets and ensure efficient cooling.
Final Thoughts
Swapping a V8 into an S10 is an exciting project, but cooling is a critical factor that can’t be overlooked. The right radiator makes all the difference in maintaining engine performance and reliability. Take your time to research, measure, and choose a radiator designed to meet the demands of your V8 swap. From my experience, a quality aluminum radiator with the right core size, fan setup, and transmission cooler integration will keep your engine running cool mile after mile.
Author Profile
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Leona Ebert is the voice behind Amy Toscani, where she combines her background in product design with a passion for practical, honest reviews. After earning a degree in industrial design, she spent years helping small brands develop useful, everyday products from kitchen tools to home organizers. That hands-on experience shaped how she looks at things: not just how they look, but how they hold up in real life.
Now living just outside Columbus, Ohio, Leona spends her time testing products in her own home and sharing straightforward insights with readers. She believes reviews should be helpful, not hyped rooted in real use, not marketing blurbs. Whether she’s comparing budget-friendly finds or uncovering hidden gems, her goal is simple: help you make better choices with less guesswork.
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