95 Tahoe Radiator Upgrade

[95 Tahoe]

Just wanted to share if anyone is wanting to do the same thing. I have been having some lackluster cooling performance and decided to change out the old radiator. The fan would scream in these 95-99 degree temps. The old radiator was a 1 1/4" single row I think. I suspect it had some fouling. I found a 2 3/16" radiator at Advanced Auto for $249, part number 431334. With the current 20% off coupon it was $200. About the same price as if I ordered one from Rock Auto. The thicker radiator was a drop in replacement and seems to work a lot better. The fan isn't roaring when I take off anymore and the temps do not climb much while stopped. I do plan to change to a heavy duty or severe duty fan clutch as well.

 

[Caman96]

I would replace that little rubber cap plug above transmission line that radiator likely has. That cheap cap will fail leaving you stranded.

 

[95 Tahoe]

I would replace that little rubber cap plug above transmission line that radiator likely has. That cheap cap will fail leaving you stranded.

What other replacement do they have for it? My old radiator had it too.

 

[Caman96]

I did the same a few years ago and got a dual core Spectra from Advanced Auto. This is what you want, a silicone cap. This 16mm fit my Spectra, they have different sizes, so just confirm for yours.
HPS 5/8" (16mm) Black High Temperature 3-ply Reinforced Silicone Coolant Cap Bypass Heater, 1-5/8" Length, 350F Max. Temp, 4mm Wall Thickness
https://a.co/d/00qQzsZZ

 

[GoToGuy]

Most trucks in heavier weight category, towing got the full size radiator with the 2 1/8 or 2 3/16 core . And some big blocks 7.4 had a 2 1/2 taller radiator.

 

[Schurkey]

I do plan to change to a heavy duty or severe duty fan clutch as well.

Only if you also change to a heavy-duty or severe-duty fan.

 

[95 Tahoe]

Only if you also change to a heavy-duty or severe-duty fan.

I've seen some comments on the fan rating vs clutch rating. I've read they Hayden publication on it. It's all clear as mud to me at this point. I have been running the GM 11 blade fan used on the later model trucks. Also, I checked my fan clutch this morning it is actually already a heavy duty. According to Hayden, the 5 blade fan I was using should be considered heavy duty since it measures 2 1/2" depth. The 11 blade with shallower blade depth seems to move more air. I haven't verified this in any kind of way.