Cooling System Upgrades for an 88
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2022
Posts: 133
Likes: 6
From: Dallas, TX
Cooling System Upgrades for an 88
Hello all, my 88 vette needs a new cooling system and I was wondering what you all think of my parts list. For the radiator, I was thinking of the Auto Dynasty 3-row full aluminum racing radiator for about $130 on Amazon. For the coolant hoses, I was thinking of the Continental High-Performance Blue Xtreme Kit for about $90 on AutoZone. For the water pump, I was thinking of the GMB High-Performance aluminum water pump for about $74 on RockAuto. Finally, for the thermostat, I was thinking of the FVP 195-degree high-flow thermostat for $4 on RockAuto. Any thoughts on this list, whether or not these parts are compatible with each other, or are compatible with the otherwise stock engine is very appreciated. Thank you!
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 62,160
Likes: 1,733
From: Athens AL
C7 of the Year - Unmodified Finalist 2021
C4 of Year Finalist (performance mods) 2019
I don't know those parts per se, my WP is a Stewart Stage 1, my radiator is a DeWitts and I run a basic stock t-stat now and regular old Delco hoses. My fans have been adjusted in the chip and the B4P has a Hypertech sensor/switch upgraded in the head that flips it on earlier.
But the best and most worthwhile part was the DeWitts.
But the best and most worthwhile part was the DeWitts.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2022
Posts: 133
Likes: 6
From: Dallas, TX
I don't know those parts per se, my WP is a Stewart Stage 1, my radiator is a DeWitts and I run a basic stock t-stat now and regular old Delco hoses. My fans have been adjusted in the chip and the B4P has a Hypertech sensor/switch upgraded in the head that flips it on earlier.
But the best and most worthwhile part was the DeWitts.
But the best and most worthwhile part was the DeWitts.
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 62,160
Likes: 1,733
From: Athens AL
C7 of the Year - Unmodified Finalist 2021
C4 of Year Finalist (performance mods) 2019
I just checked on the price of that radiator and it's a tad bit out of my price range. Both you and FostersPerformance say it was a worthwhile purchase, but I still need money for the rest of the car. Are there any cheaper alternatives you recommend? Preferably $200 or less.
If you don't have to replace the WP or hoses, put the money to the DeWitts.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2022
Posts: 133
Likes: 6
From: Dallas, TX
Here is a current picture of my engine, she's in sorry shape.
I do need new hoses, a water pump, and a thermostat, but I trust that you know what you're talking about with this radiator.
Corvette Stories
The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts
Top 10 Most Expensive Corvettes Ever Sold on Bring A Trailer
Brett Foote
10 Things Every Corvette Owner Needs (2026 Edition)
Michael S. Palmer
8 Most "Only Corvette Owners Understand" Quirks and Problems
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Reasons the C6 Z06 is Still A Performance Benchmark After 20 Years
Joe Kucinski
How Much Horsepower Every Corvette Engine "LOST" in 1972
Joe Kucinski
Top 10 DOs and DON'Ts for Protecting Your Convertible Top!
Michael S. Palmer
Top 10 Most Explosive Corvettes Ever Made: Power-to-Weight Ratio Ranked!
Joe Kucinski
150 hp to 1,250 hp: Every Corvette Generation Compared by the Specs That Matter
Joe Kucinski
