60-61E Reproduction Aluminum Top Tank Radiator

The first aluminum radiator (3147516) was used on 1960 high-performance (270/290Hp) Corvettes. This radiator had an aluminum overflow tank attached to the top and is therefore commonly referred to as a "top tank" radiator. This tank was not a pressured expansion tank.

The first version of this radiator featured a smooth flat top and had no plastic coolant-level viewing plug. The radiator was unpainted and used a 13-psi pressure cap. In the middle of the 1960 production year, five ribs were added to the top of the tank for added strength. Shortly after that change, the plastic coolant-level sight hole was added, creating yet a third version for the radiator.

The radiator part number changed to 3151116 for the early 1961 (270/315) high performance Corvettes and was used up to VIN number 1700. The only change made to the radiator was an aluminum nipple and coupling was added to the assembly. None of the original production versions were painted. Due to the limited number of top tank radiator Corvettes and the three possible versions, we choose to reproduce the final version GM #3151116. Made in USA.

Specify serial number when ordering for correct date code. Corvette radiators are date coded based on a production of 1-2 months prior to the assembly date of your Corvette. If you desire a specific date code - please call a Zip Corvette salesperson (1-800-962-9632) to make a specific request.

Are two rows really better than three or four? In the era of copper and brass radiators, more rows meant better cooling due to increased surface area. However, with aluminum radiators, the game has changed. Engineers found that reducing fin height and using wider tubes increased tube-to-fin contact, enhancing performance while cutting weight. The U.S. standard for performance aluminum radiators is 1" wide tubes, while imported radiators often use smaller 16mm tubes. This means a 2-row aluminum radiator with 1" tubes offers better cooling than a 3-row imported design.  When researching, focus on tube width for a clearer picture of efficiency and origin.

Dewitts aluminum radiators are warrantied to be free from defects in materials and workmanship for as long as you own the Corvette in which it was originally installed. This warranty is extended only to the first retail purchaser of any such radiator. Proof of purchase must be provided in the way of a sale receipt from DRI or an authorized dealer. If the radiator is used in any racing application this warranty is considered null and void.

Radiators used without an adequate proportion of premium quality antifreeze coolant and distilled water are not covered by this warranty. DRI radiators require a correct proportion of quality coolant, which contains aluminum corrosion inhibitors in the formula and distilled water. All Corvette cooling systems must include a radiator pressure cap with the proper pressure rating. Distilled water and premium antifreeze must be used with all Corvette aluminum radiators!

Dewitt Item Number 32-940B

(GM Part 3151116)