48 Chevrolet Stylemaster ute

[redminch]

G'day All

I have a Stylemaster ute that I am giving an "upgrade". I have got a question for you guys in the US.
We do not have many of these here and no-one seems to have done what I am doing.
Well anyway I am putting an LS1 in it with a lot of other changes, new suspension etc.. But my question is regarding the radiator.
Will a standard one be adequate for this motor, or will it need to be upgraded too?
Any thoughts welcome.

Regards

Brian

[Beck]

First, welcome to the Roundtable.

The LS family of motors isn't know to be heavy heat generators, but I would not trust a 57 year old radiator to cool my car. ( If by "standard" you are talking about the original. )

If by "standard" you are talking about a replacement hot rod style radiator, I think you will be fine. You don't need to spend the extra $$ on something made for a big block unless you are building it for high performance.

The newer motors are designed to run at a higher temperature than those of 1948. Higher temperatures mean higher pressure too.

[enjenjo]

I have run a recored original with a 350 small block with no issues, in fact the car is still running the same radiator now, over 12 years later with a fuel injected 350. They will not take much pressure, 7 psi is about the limit.

I believe Aussie desert cooler makes one for it, that might be better for a LS motor.

[redminch]

Thanks guys for the replys. I guess that answers my question. If I get the original reconditioned it will be adequate for the LS1.
So that will be my plan.

Enjenjo, I have heard a lot of reports about Aussie Desert coolers. Most of them not so good. But that is hearsy, I have not had anything from them.

Regards

[enjenjo]

Thanks guys for the replys. I guess that answers my question. If I get the original reconditioned it will be adequate for the LS1.
So that will be my plan.

Enjenjo, I have heard a lot of reports about Aussie Desert coolers. Most of them not so good. But that is hearsy, I have not had anything from them.

Regards

I have never used one from them, so no direct experience. I have used both Walkers, and Griffins in other cars with no issues, last couple cars I needed custom radiators for I used PRC here in Ohio, and am very satisfied with both price and service.