As you guys know stock lt1's tend to run a little hot, apparently due to the fact that the fans aren't programmed to turn on until temps have reached 200+. I would like to change this. I have a '94 Trans Am GT, completely stock. Do I need to buy a performance radiator ( I've thought about one on summitracing.com, the Be Cool Custom-Fit Aluminum Radiators for $600+)? Or can keep my engine and tranny cool through other means? Sugestions and testimonies, please.

P.S.
I'm going to buy a custom pcm/ecm program from madz28.com, would solve the problem?

 

You should not need to replace the stock radiator. If you want it to run cooler, replace the thermostat with a 160 deg and have the fan on and off temp reprogrammed. You must do both things at the same time.
I run my 847 cammed 383 with the stock radiator with no temp issues. I drive it on the streets a lot.
RG

 

You would waste money on a new radiator. The reprogram and a 160° thermostat will keep it cool.

 

Aside from the good mods above, improving the factory cooling system is all about airflow. Sealing the gaps around the radiator with foam etc, improved my idle & city traffic cooling and a/c performance. If you live someplace warm, you can run 60% water/40%AF for a bit more heat capacity, too. Make sure the pressure cap is good. If that doesn't cut it, a bigger fan motor is cheaper than new radiator. Heavy duty dedicated fan wiring and relays are recommended at that point, to help keep the fans well fed.

 

Yes, after having him tune my car, it runs about 35 degrees cooler now. 180-185 is wear it usually where it stays at where in the past before the tune, it would run at 210-215. This is all on the stock thermostat as well. If I were to go with a 160 degree thermostat and have it retuned accordinally, it would run even cooler.