1978 L-82 Radiator
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 5,236
Likes: 898
From: Myrtle Beach SC
In 1978, all radiators were made of brass construction. Your L82 would have been the heavy duty, used from 77-early 79. The heavy-duty radiator was GM #3035856 with broadcast code "ML." Many I know like the DeWitts as construction approximates the original specs but other vendors offer quality products as well. If you are replacing, check the metal radiator core support. These metal supports are subject to much corrosion and rust and you may need to replace as well.
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 8,913
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Thanks Tom. My dad just purchased the vette and is driving it home this week. He said it had a very small leak. He could not tell if the radiator was aluminum or not.
The car has 23K miles on it, but will inspect the support as well.
Thanks again.
The car has 23K miles on it, but will inspect the support as well.
Thanks again.
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2000
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From: Southbound
Cruise-In II Veteran
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 5,236
Likes: 898
From: Myrtle Beach SC
Few years back I took my 78s radiator to an old timey auto shop that repairs radiators and also did a flow check. Flow check will indicated how much corrosion has built up since 1978. They did the repair and its worked fine since. I agree with Mike...have it checked out first and have it repaired. I also switched antifreeze to the yellow G-05 since I also did a full flush of the system including pulling drain plugs from the block. If you're going to do it...now is the time to refresh the entire cooling system. 
