RADIATOR SWAP: Final Checks and Test Drive

This is the final video of the C3 Corvette radiator swap series, where I replace the old copper unit with a new 3-row aluminum radiator by Champion.

It has been a long and challenging road for sure, but worth every minute.

My 1976 Corvette Stingray now idles comfortably between 190° and 205°. While driving it usually stays at around 190°. Quite the difference from the early days of the overheating problem when it would reach the red line, then drop to about 230° or 240°.

In the end, I replaced most of the cooling system parts, with the exception of the clutch fan and the fan itself. The rest of the components: the radiator, hoses, water pump, thermostat, temp sender, and gauge, are all brand new.

The total cost for this project, including things such as gaskets, coolant, etc., is under $500, and that includes the 3-row aluminum radiator by Champion.

Had I hired a mechanic to do the work, I'd be easily staring at a very expensive labor bill, anywhere from $750 to who knows how much. And it is a time-consuming and involved project, so a professional would have to be compensated for their time and knowledge.

Personally, I prefer to save money as the labor costs can easily pay for a QuickJack lift, and I'd rather have that tool in my garage instead.

In this video I cover the following:

1. Testing a 180° thermostat
2. Testing a 160° thermostat
3. Test drives with both
4. Longer test drives with the 160° thermostat
5. Comparing gauge vs. waterneck temperature readings
6. and more!

Thank you for watching! 🙂👍🏻

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CORVETTE PRODUCTS (sponsored)

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Wheel Chocks: https://amzn.to/2U82L5Y
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Lower Radiator Hose: https://amzn.to/2Uau2Vn
Engine Gloss Clear Paint: https://amzn.to/2vCtv4z

1976 Assembly Manual: https://amzn.to/2GBuHrd
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68-82 Corvette Resto: https://amzn.to/2QvvIGQ

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DISCLAIMER: Although I enjoy working on Corvettes and some of my videos are instructional in nature, I am not responsible or liable if you choose to follow my advice on the subject.

I am a self-taught DIYer. If videos appear to give technical how-to advice, that is not my intention.

Working on a vehicle can be dangerous. If you're not confident, qualified, or lack the tools to do the job correctly and safely, hire a mechanic.


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