Camaro ZL1 Cooling Mods
Keeping a high-powered ZL1 cool under pressure isn't just about making more power, it’s about reliability. Although, the factory cooling system does its job for daily driving and short pulls, once you start pushing harder, on the street, strip, or track, you’ll quickly find its limits. Higher intake temps, inconsistent power, and heat soak all point to the same thing: it’s time for an upgrade. Which is why you hear so many shops and builders recommend installing cooling mods lock and step with power mods in order to help you keep all that power usable when you need it most.
For those who are determine to improve the under-hood aesthetics of their 6th. Gen. Camaro, the engine coolant reservoir quickly becomes an eye sore. Luckily, the team at Mishimoto have created a great looking option for those of us who want our power plants to look as great as they perform, and unlike the OEM tank, this one will not melt in high HP / high heat applications.
This tank, like the stock tank, actually comprises two separate compartments that serve as both pressurized expansion and overflow tanks. Made entirely of aluminum, the Mishimoto tank features fully-welded construction for maximum durability. The tank also includes a built-in sight glass and sight tube to make checking coolant levels a breeze.
Speaking of making things a breeze, you'll be able to install this tank in under an hour, with added support from the instructions that can be found HERE. This direct-fit tank fits all 2016+ Camaros, comes in your choice of polished or matte black powder-coated finishes direct from Mishimoto OR a custom satin wrinkle finish as described in the options below.
NOTE: This unit ships without a reservoir pressure cap. You must reuse your existing coolant cap pr purchase a new one.
FINISH OPTIONS; Select from either the standard matte black or polished aluminum. Or, if you want yours custom coated with a satin wrinkle finish like the one found on our SHOP CAR, select the $100 option. We created this option to match our decorative reservoir cap set found HERE. Note; we have seen alot of variation when ordering “polished aluminum” if this is the selection you choose, please be prepared to invest extra time to buff and polish even more for a higher quality finish.
Matching Decorative Reservoir Caps; Tired of looking at the mis-matched ugly OEM caps? us too… which is why we made the custom decorative caps shown in the photos, that install over your OEM caps to help coordinate your entire under-hood theme. By popular demand we now offer a bundle discount if you want to add this beautiful set of 3D printed reservoir caps designed to mimic the hood brackets satin wrinkle black powder coat. For those who like to coordinate, it is a great addition. You can read more about them HERE.
By popular demand, we have married our popular universal “crossover delete” package and our universal “heat exchanger reservoir” package in to it’s first turn-key package designed to bolt and splice right into your OEM cooling system. This package will not only help you maximize the effectiveness of the HX system, but will upgrade the appearance of your 1.7L engine bay. Our goal when developing of our Stage.III Super Charger Cooling System was simple. Improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the heat exchanger system by finding and eliminating the major restrictions, as well as adding and replacing components to improve volume and overall efficiency all while utilizing the OEM pump. Although we were seeing great results with our Stage.II system with a flow rate up to 4.0GPM we knew there was more restriction in the system, and we aimed our sights at the restrictive crossover tube. Knowing that we wanted our kit to look as good as it performed, and still be able to offer a bundle discount, it was critical to get the part combination perfect. After testing several combinations and hose configurations we settled on what you see now. A universal kit that not only adds that upgraded richer look, but also unlocked another 20% increase in HX coolant flow bumping our test car up to 5.1GPM (thats a 54% increase from our 2.8GPM baseline) all while utilizing the OEM pump.
The next step was finding a reservoir solution. For that, the location was critical to it’s effectiveness, and we did not stop testing until we were able to check all the boxes. Our goal was to keep it away from the heat of the headers which eliminated it from the common location on the drivers side strut brace which unfortunately places is directly above the red hot headers, and seems to be counter intuitive to the efforts of keeping this fluid as cool as possible. The other easy location is directly in front of the thermostat, but that is where most of the catch can offerings are used (including my Might Mouse Catch Can). That left us only one small space to try and use. One that required the perfect size reservoir, and a custom 2-piece bracket design in order for it to fit. After several weeks and 6 iterations, the solution was not only complete, it was effective, looked OEM and costs ½ of what some of the other customs solutions cost.
This location now provides the perfect place to add fluid in order to prime the pump, and keeps the canister away from the direct heat of the headers, while providing large 3/4” hose barbs which allows us to upgrade all of the hose in the HX system to 3/4” between the pump, fender tank and heat exchangers for even more flow, and system capacity.
For those who already have or wish to use our DMS fender tank, they do work great in combination, but the fender tank does not replace the need for this reservoir. Although the DMS Fender Tank allows for easy system filling, and easy bleeding due to the “high point” of the system factor, it does not provide a pressure cap, and does not allow for easy pump priming. Which is why we added this perfectly fit Edelbrock coolant reservoir to the system and mounted it in a way that allows for easy pump priming as it’s placed between the ECU and engine coolant tank using a custom bracket that bolts to the top of the OEM PCV box.
When it comes time to fill / prime the system, we always begin filling from the reservoir while keeping the fender tank lid open until the system fills enough to remove all major air pockets, and the coolant reservoir is nearly full, and flowing freely. At that point we tighten the 16psi pressure cap, and allow the system to continue to bleed and burp from the fender tank and pressure relief valve provided for the top of the main front HX. Once the system is bleed and the fender tank is approximately 90% full we cap the fender tank and continue to circulate the system allowing it to build pressure and move any air bubbles to the highest point (the fender tank) After 5 minutes we crack open the tank to allow the air to escape, then cap and repeat a few more times for good measure. Note; once the system is full we do not recommend opening the small reservoirs pressure cap, as it sits below the supercharger bricks and will be full and under pressure. The reservoir is only opened when the system has been emptied and is ready to refill. Periodic fillings should be serviced from the fender tank.
Note; Although this is technically an expansion tank, I am refraining to use that term, as it’s not designed to add capacity, it’s designed to be a filling / pump priming point. That said, this reservoir does holds approx. 3.5 cups or .85L of fluid and includes a bottom center mounted 3/4” barb and a top side inlet 3/4” barb. Expansion tank? not really…
SYSTEM BENEFITS
Dedicated IN/OUT manifolds prevent passenger side supercharger brick coolant starvation by feeding each brick its own balanced pressure and flow rate thanks to our Y-block fittings.
Manifolds are precision cut from billet aluminum for a perfect fit and beautiful finish. Can be easily powder coated to coordinate with your specific under-hood color theme.
54% increase in HX coolant flow observed in our test vehicle while using the OEM pump with our triple HX package and upgraded 3/4” silicone hoses.
Easy Pump Priming with the location of our reservoir.
Perfect addition to a MAX EFFORT 1.7L supercharger build.
Better flow and balanced distribution gets your cold fluid into the bricks faster for better heat transfer and supercharger cooling efficiency.
Works best with Triple HX Package + 2 Gallon Fender Tank + Upgraded HX Fitting Package… for maximum flow, and reduced restrictions.
Save $185 vs purchasing parts separately !!!
A little about the Raceflux Fittings.
RaceFlux's aluminum AN fittings were designed specifically for use in motor sports where maximum fluid flow and reliability are paramount. The fittings are reusable and their black anodized finish offers a fresh, stealthier look over traditional red and blue fittings.
The low-profile design allows for additional clearance in vehicles where where spaced is limited.
Features and Benefits
Male straight AN thread O-Ring Boss (ORB) fitting with Viton o-ring, to male AN / JIC flared 37-degree thread or smooth hose barb.
Compliant with SAE J1926-1 / MS16142 as well as SAE AS5202 / MS33649.
Shorter than standard straight thread (O-ring) side maximizes clearance.
Lightweight black anodized aluminum construction.
1 year manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials or workmanship.
A little about Flexlab Silicone Hose.
Flexlab silicone coolant hose is engineered for hostile engine environments, this coolant hose is ideal for extreme temperature and pressure ranges where high-performance levels are required. Silicone resists hardening, cracking, cold leaks, aging, and a number of chemicals, making it a durable, long-lasting solution for your applications.
Benefits.
Extreme Temperature Resistance.
Extreme Duty Cycle Tested for Hostile Engine Environments.
Durable Construction for Various Pressure Ranges.
-65F to 350F temperature range.
Extremely flexible and easy to work with.
A little about Raceflux Braided Hose.
RaceFlux's RH1 lightweight racing hose is 33% lighter than stainless braided hose and much easier to assemble and work with. This 4-layer hose is SAE J30 R9 rated and features a Viton Fluoroelastomer (FKM) inner layer for compatibility with nearly all automotive fluids including fuel, engine oil, gear oil, transmission fluid, coolants, water, air and vacuum.
Features and Benefits
NHRA Approved.
33% lighter than traditional stainless steel braided hose
Smooth bore Viton FKM fluroeslastomer rubber inner layer composed of vinylidene fluoride (VDF), hexafluoropropylene (HFP) and tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) with a high fluorine content for excellent chemical resistance
Reinforced with a lightweight embedded stainless steel inner braid for use in vacuum applications
-40°F (-40°C) to 302°F (150°C) operating temperature
300 PSI max operating pressure & 1,000 PSI burst pressure
For use with traditional reusable AN fittings (not for use with push-on style barbed fittings)
Whats in the box;
(2) -10 AN 45 degree Fittings
(4) -10 AN 120 degree Fittings
(2) -10 AN 130 degree Fittings
(1) 16psi Pressure Release Cap
(4) 3/4” Constant Tension Clamps
(4) Feet of 3/4” Black Silicone Hose
(1) 3/4” to 5/8” Hose Splice Connectors
(2) -12 AN to -10 AN Y-Block Connectors
(2) -10 AN Billet Coolant Manifold Adapters
(1) Edelbrock Coolant Reservoir “expansion tank”
(1) Pair of Powder Coated Brackets with SS Hardware
(12) feet of -10AN RaceFlux's RH1 lightweight racing hose
What YOU will need to provide:
Patience and attention to detail for installation... or, someone like that, who you trust with your beloved, adorned, magnificent, earth shaking, alarm sounding Camaro ZL1.
Cut-off wheel or large cable cutters in order to cut your braided lines to fit.
Additional connectors, hoses and fittings may be needed depending on your existing system design or preferred routing path.
More 50/50 coolant.
Fitment: 2017+ Camaro ZL1 / 2016+ CTS.V
Check out the Walk Around VIDEO HERE or the slightly more detailed VIDEO HERE
Want to maximize your investment in larger heat exchangers? Then you just found the perfect product to do so. The Dedicated Motorsports coolant expansion tank for the 2017-2024 Camaro ZL1 not only adds 2 gallons of additional coolant capacity, but it allows you to fill and bleed the system with incredible easy with the addition of a 1.5" Filler cap and the included funnel that aids in filling the tank through the fender opening. This additional volume will not only help keep intake air temps lower but it will also allow air to escape the system making the system more efficient overall. Like many of you have seen or experienced yourself, the OEM coolant system is sealed, and can be very hard to bleed all of the bubbles out of the system. Matt and the team at DMS were one of the first on the market with this design, and we are excited to be able to add this to our complete cooling packages, or stand alone to improve the system you already have.
The DMS fender tank is constructed out of durable .125" aluminum, expertly tig welded in house and powdered coated in a satin black finish. It features -12 ORB inlet/outlet barbs with -12an ORB fittings allowing you to run 3/4” hose or upgrade to AN lines and fitting. Cost includes a pair of pre-made -12an feed and return lines along with all hardware for trouble free installation.
Want to maximize the extra coolant volume? Then add our massive triple HX kit for dramatically improved cooling, and our signature GMS High Flow Impact bar to help improve air flow and aesthetics at the same time.
Trying to get the most out of your cooling system? Then take a look at our complete system that will save you hundreds with bundle pricing!
Fitment: 2017 - 2024 Camaro SS / ZL1
By popular demand, we have added a universal adapter and hose kit that will help not only maximize the effectiveness of the HX system, but will make your upgrade just a little easier. Although upgrading to 3/4” hose is not required to install our AUX Coolers, it does help. Our testing revealed a 20% increase in coolant flow after upgrading all of the OEM HX coolant hoses with all 3/4” hose.
A little about Flexlab Silicone Hose.
Flexlab silicone coolant hose is engineered for hostile engine environments, this coolant hose is ideal for extreme temperature and pressure ranges where high-performance levels are required. Silicone resists hardening, cracking, cold leaks, aging, and a number of chemicals, making it a durable, long-lasting solution for your applications.
Benefits.
Extreme Temperature Resistance.
Extreme Duty Cycle Tested for Hostile Engine Environments.
Durable Construction for Various Pressure Ranges.
Long Life Design.
-65F to 350F temperature range.
Extremely flexible and easy to work with.
A little about the Raceflux Fittings.
RaceFlux's aluminum AN fittings were designed specifically for use in motor sports where maximum fluid flow and reliability are paramount. The fittings are reusable and their black anodized finish offers a fresh, stealthier look over traditional red and blue fittings.
The low-profile design allows for additional clearance in vehicles where where spaced is limited.
Features and Benefits
Male straight AN thread O-Ring Boss (ORB) fitting with Viton o-ring, to male AN / JIC flared 37-degree thread or smooth hose barb.
Compliant with SAE J1926-1 / MS16142 as well as SAE AS5202 / MS33649.
Shorter than standard straight thread (O-ring) side maximizes clearance.
Lightweight black anodized aluminum construction.
1 year manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials or workmanship.
Whats in the box:
(4) -10 ORB to -12 AN Male Low Profile Adapters
(4) -12 AN to 3/4” 120 degree Hose Barb Fittings
(9) feet of 3/4” silicone Flexlab hose
What YOU will need to provide:
Patience and attention to detail for installation... or, someone like that, who you trust with your beloved, adorned, magnificent, earth shaking, alarm sounding Camaro ZL1 or SS.
Cut-off wheel for a quick trim to the upper bracket and 1.75” hole saw bit to open the hole on the upper brackets.
Additional connectors, hoses and fittings may be needed depending on your existing system design or preferred routing path. Remember this is intended to be a universal kit. Email me if you have any other needs or questions about path design.
More 50/50 coolant. Some nice hose pinch clamps are not required, but a good addition for peace of mind.
Fitment: 2017+ Camaro ZL1 / SS + 2016+ CTS.V
AUX Cooler + fitting Install Guide can be downloaded by clicking THIS link.
In our tireless effort to help you keep your LT4 running cool and looking good, we offer you the best looking billet thermostat housing on the market. Designed and built by our friends at Dedicated Motorsports this bolt on replacement for the OEM plastic thermostat housing found on all Gen V LT motors strikes the perfect balance between form and function. As you may already know, this OEM plastic housing is prone to breakage during engine service or during the loss of a serpentine belt, which as you can imagine can be catastrophic if taken out while driving . To prevent this DMS clocked the top nipple in the same plane as the thermostat inlet, effectively moving it out of warms way in the event of a belt break. The housing is CNC machined from 6061 billet aluminum and comes with a double o-ring seal to prevent leakage. This work of art comes equipped with a 160 degree thermostat allowing engine coolant to start circulating earlier, aiding in your efforts to keep higher temps at bay. Although we are focused in the LT4 engine, this housing fits all L83, L86, LT1, LT4, LT5 engines.
*May not fit some trucks with aftermarket intakes or superchargers. If you question your fitment make sure to take note of the small 3/8 line placement on the t-stat housing vs the stock unit on your vehicle.
Installing this unit is a breeze, and easier when the coolant is already drained during a cam install, or installation of one of our oil coolers. If you have any questions about this unit, please don’t hesitate to email us at info@griffin-motorsports.com.
Wanna make an even more dramatic improvement to your ZL1’s coolant temps? Then consider our Triple HX package or find this item in our Stage.II Supercharger Cooling Package for maximum performance and savings!
We take great care in selecting which components would offer the best combination of performance, durability and value for all of our cooling packages. Not only for our test car, but for yours as well. It’s this passion for improvement that led us to working our friends at CSF to modify an existing design, in order to give you more flexibility and better performance.
GMS worked closely with the team at CSF to make some improvements to their existing #8207 design by removing the fixed GM quick connect fittings in favor of a pair of -10 ORB female bosses which gives you the flexibility to run the OEM 5/8” quick connects (included in the box), push lock or AN fittings of your choice. We also changed the finish so all three units match in color and provide uniform aesthetics as well as proven cooling results. The ORB bungs also allow you to remove the OEM 5/8” hose / fittings and upgrade to 3/4” between the AUX and Main HX by simply installing a -10 ORB to -12 AN adapter. Note: In an effort to maximize the size of these units, cutting the upper bracket in one corner may be needed on some cars. Additionally, modifications will be needed for the 3/4” option depending on the fittings and preferred hose routing. This effort to upgrade to 3/4” fittings and hoses yielded us a 20% increase in flow using the factory pump!!!
Each CSF Radiator design, custom or not, undergoes rigorous testing before it is brought to market. Testing includes:
-Individually leak tested
-Vibration cycle tested
-Thermal cycle tested
-Wind tunnel cycle tested.
-Burst pressure and impulse cycle tested for strength
-Salt spray tested for corrosion
-10 foot box "drop test" to ensure packaging protection
Not only are these CSF built beauties more efficient and more durable than OEM but they also add approx. 150% more capacity to the supercharger cooling system vs. the OEM parts. (3 cups vs 2 cups).
GMS takes pride in offering the very best components for your car. As LT4 purists, we want to squeeze as much power as we can from the LT4 factory 1.7L blower. As most of you know, making big power with these compact blowers often means spinning them faster, which is a double edged sword. As the blower speed increases, so does the heat generated by the blower, which quickly illuminates the weakness of the factory HX cooling system. So whether you are simply trying to keep your otherwise stock ZLE happy on the track, or your 1000HP street racer is combating your sky rocketing IAT’s this HX combo will help.
Want to keep track of your IAT’s and oil temps in real time? Add an incredible Banks iDash to your cart for maximum monitoring capabilities.
Whats in the box:
(2) GMS Aux Coolers (with 5/8” Quick Connects)
What YOU will need to provide:
Patience and attention to detail for installation... or, someone like that, who you trust with your beloved, adorned, magnificent, earth shaking, alarm sounding ZL1.
Cut-off wheel for a quick trim to the upper bracket no matter which fitting set up you choose.
-12AN to 3/4” hose set-up requires a 1-3/4” hole saw -10ORB to -12AN low profile adapters and your choice of fittings. We suggest using 3/4” silicone hoses for this option, as well as 120 degree fittings.
More 50/50 coolant. Some nice hose pinch clamps are a big help here also.
Fitment: 2018+ Camaro ZL1 + 2016+ CTS.V
AUX Cooler Install Guide can be downloaded by clicking THIS link.
It is widely known that OEM super-charger cooling system on 6th generation Camaro ZL1's is inadequate. Even in stock form, the OEM system has a hard time keeping IAT's cool in hot climates or racing conditions. This problem is exponentialy worse once you start turning up the boost, leaving little time before your ECM starts to pull timing which leaves a lot of power on the table, instead of at the tire where it belongs.
Griffin Motorsports takes a multi-stage multi-faceted approach to this solution making sure we have a cost-savings package for every budget and power level.
Our Stage.II solution starts with the most popular front HX on the market for 6th gen. Camaro's. This custom DMS designed and CSF built beauty not only increased the size of the HX but also increased its efficiency through the use of CSF's B tube technology and ultra efficient multi-louvered fins. As you may have already figured out, upgrading to a high flow coolant pump is useless if you have major system restrictions like factory heat exchangers. DMS helped alleviate these restrictions and added flexibility with the addition of -12ORB inlet/outlet fittings. This allows the end user to choose the inlets/outlet size of either -12an (3/4 Inch) or 3/4 Hose barb much like OEM.
Not only are these CSF built beauties more efficient and more durable than OEM but combined with the 2 gallon fender tank this set also holds approx. 815% more fluid than the OEM Heat Exchangers. (49 cups vs 6 cups).
With maximum efficiency in mind, we also added a pair of High Flow auxiliary coolers to the mix. GMS worked closely with the team at CSF to make some improvements to their existing #8207 design by removing the fixed GM quick connect fittings in favor of a pair of -10 ORB female bosses which gives you the flexibility to run the OEM 5/8” quick connects (included in the box), push lock or AN fittings of your choice. We also changed the finish so all three units match in color and provide uniform aesthetics as well as proven cooling results. The ORB bungs also allow you to remove the OEM 5/8” hose / fittings and upgrade to 3/4” between the AUX and Main HX by simply installing a -10 ORB to -12 AN adapter. Note: In an effort to maximize the size of these units, cutting the upper bracket in one corner may be needed on some cars. Additionally, modifications will be needed for the 3/4” option depending on the fittings and preferred hose routing.
With the much larger and more efficient main HX in place, the next step to lower IAT's is adding more volume to the system which makes the coolant temp much slower to raise temps and much faster to decrease them. This DMS designed and built coolant expansion tank not only adds 2 gallons of additional coolant capacity, but it allows you to fill and bleed the system with incredible easy with the addition of a 1.5" Filler cap and the included funnel that aids in filling the tank through the fender opening. This additional volume will not only help keep intake air temps lower but it will also allow air to escape the system making the system more efficient overall. Like many of you have seen or experienced yourself, the OEM coolant system is sealed, and can be very hard to bleed all of the bubbles out of the system. Matt and the team at DMS were one of the first on the market with this design, and we are excited to be able to add this to our cooling packages.
The DMS fender tank is constructed out of durable .125" aluminum, expertly tig welded in house and powdered coated in a satin black finish. It features -12 ORB inlet/outlet barbs with -12an ORB fittings allowing you to run 3/4” hose or upgrade to AN lines and fitting. Cost includes a pair of pre-made -12an feed and return lines along with all hardware for trouble free installation.
Rounding out the parts list is our signature High Flow Impact Bar which not only provides a clear view of your new massive DMS heat exchanger for a clear aesthetic improvement, but also the improvement in airflow. Adding to this innovative patent pending design is a pair of custom CNC’d aluminum air deflectors that help prevent air from trapping at the bolt flanges. Rather, they channel to either the main or auxiliary coolers. Outfitted with a heavy duty front tow hook coupler and treated to a matte black powder coated finish, this product was design to offer a turn-key solution to improve a poorly designed OEM part. This product ships with installation instructions and hardware. Although this product was literally designed in the garage, this 3D modeled assembly is fabricated using precision laser cut parts for a professional fit. Note: Due to the size of this set, the order ships in (3-4) separate boxes.
What’s in the boxes:
GMS High Flow Impact Bar + Tow Hook Coupler
(2) GMS AUX Coolers w/ 5/8” Quick Connects
Left and Right Black Aluminum Air Deflectors
DMS Fender Tank with hoses and fittings
DMS Heat Exchanger with fittings
Complete Hardware Kit
Installation Instructions
What YOU will need to provide:
Coolant, Tools, Patience and attention to detail for installation... or, someone like that, who you trust with your beloved, adorned, magnificent, earth shaking, alarm sounding ZL1.
Cut-off wheel for a quick trim to the upper AUX cooler brackets (no matter which fitting set up you choose)
For the AUX Coolers, -12AN to 3/4” hose set-up requires a 1-3/4” hole saw -10ORB to -12AN low profile adapters and your choice of fittings. We suggest using 3/4” silicone hoses for this option, as well as 120 degree fittings.
More 50/50 coolant. Some nice hose pinch clamps are a big help here also.
Basic hand tools. Although this can be done with one person, in a garage with jack stands, having an extra set of hands available to handle the front bumper fascia is helpful.
Fitment: 2017-2024 Camaro ZL1 (direct fit with no modifications needed) Note; this unit will not fit with the PLM heat exchanger.
2017-2024 Camaro SS (direct fit with minor modifications needed to the backside of the bumper by trimming 2 plastic clips)
INSTALL GUIDE can be downloaded by clicking THIS link. Please read completely before starting the installation.
We take great care in selecting which components would offer the best combination of performance, durability and value for all of our cooling packages. Not only for our test car, but for yours as well. It’s this passion for improvement that led us to working with Matt at Dedicated Motorsports in order to to offer there track proven main front HX to our clients as well. When it came to the AUX coolers, we were not satisfied with what we found existing in the market, so we worked with our friends at CSF to modify an existing design, in order to give you more flexibility and better performance.
MAIN HX: This custom DMS designed and CSF built beauty not only increased the size of the HX but also increased its efficiency through the use of CSF's B tube technology and ultra efficient multi-louvered fins. As you may have already figured out, upgrading to a high flow coolant pump is useless if you have major system restrictions like factory heat exchangers. DMS helped alleviate these restrictions and added flexibility with the addition of -12ORB inlet/outlet fittings. This allows the end user to choose the inlets/outlet size of either -12AN or 3/4 Hose barb.
AUX HX: GMS worked closely with the team at CSF to make some improvements to their existing #8207 design by removing the fixed GM quick connect fittings in favor of a pair of -10 ORB female bosses which gives you the flexibility to run the OEM 5/8” quick connects (included in the box), push lock or AN fittings of your choice. We also changed the finish so all three units match in color and finish to provide uniform aesthetics as well as proven cooling results. The ORB bungs also allow you to remove the OEM 5/8” hose / fittings and upgrade to 3/4” between the AUX and Main HX by simply installing a -10 ORB to -12 AN adapter. Note: In an effort to maximize the size of these units, cutting the upper bracket in one corner may be needed on some cars. Additional modifications will be needed for the 3/4” option depending on the fittings and preferred hose routing. It’s not that bad, we can help. This effort to upgrade to 3/4” fittings and hoses yielded us a 20% increase in flow using the factory pump!!!
Each CSF Radiator design, custom or not, undergoes rigorous testing before it is brought to market. Testing includes:
-Individually leak tested
-Vibration cycle tested
-Thermal cycle tested
-Wind tunnel cycle tested.
-Burst pressure and impulse cycle tested for strength
-Salt spray tested for corrosion
-10 foot box "drop test" to ensure packaging protection
Not only are these CSF built beauties more efficient and more durable than OEM but they also help add more capacity to the supercharger cooling system. Combined this trio hold approx. 235% more fluid (14 cups vs 6 cups) which adds just over ½ gallon of HX coolant with this set alone.
GMS takes pride in offering the very best components for your car. As LT4 purists, we want to squeeze as much power as we can from the LT4 factory 1.7L blower. As most of you know, making big power with these compact blowers often means spinning them faster, which is a double edged sword. As the blower speed increases, so does the heat generated by the blower, which quickly illuminates the weakness of the factory HX cooling system. So whether you are simply trying to keep your otherwise stock ZLE happy on the track, or your 1000HP street racer is combating your sky rocketing IAT’s this HX combo will help.
Want to keep track of your IAT’s and oil temps in real time? Add an incredible Banks iDash to your cart for maximum monitoring capabilities.
Whats in the box:
(1) DMS Main Front HX (with 3/4” barbs)
(2) GMS Aux Coolers (with removable 5/8” Quick Connects)
What YOU will need to provide:
Patience and attention to detail for installation... or, someone like that, who you trust with your beloved, adorned, magnificent, earth shaking, alarm sounding ZL1.
Cut-off wheel for a quick trim to the upper AUX cooler bracket no matter which fitting set up you choose.
-12AN to 3/4” hose set-up requires a 1-3/4” hole saw, -10ORB to -12AN low profile adapters and your choice of fittings. We suggest using 3/4” silicone hoses for this option, as well as 120 degree fittings. Email us if you want a turn-key solution for fittings as well. Our AUX Cooler fitting package can be found HERE.
More 50/50 coolant. Some nice hose pinch clamps are a big help here also.
Fitment: 2017+ Camaro ZL1 + 2016+ CTS.V
GMS STAGE.I Oil Cooler + Impact Frame Package - The perfect solution to keeping your street cars oil, and heat exchanger cool at the same time.
Note; with the new release of our larger Stage.II Oil Cooler, we are now re-branding our popular Stage.I kit as “street” and our Stage.II as “track”.
As you may already know, it’s easy for oil temps to skyrocket on the LT4 platform on the street and at the race track with many seeing oil temps over 300F, which can be an engine killer. One issue with the OEM oil cooler was the decision to cool the oil using your engine coolant. This is not only ineffective on hot days, but it should be obvious that 250F + coolant and the 250F + engine oil, will essentially heat each other as things get spicier and spicier.
The solution? The GMS remote oil cooling package + High Flow Impact Bar Bundle. There are many factors that make our kit the best on the market for your LT platform. Let’s run through them together shall we?
To start, we separate the oil and coolant by removing the OEM oil cooler all together, and replace the undersized OEM unit with a large 22” x 5” x 2.5” dual pass, bar plate unit made by our friends at CSF. It includes built in -10AN male fittings and a classy matte black heat rejecting finish that coordinates perfectly with our High Flow Impact Bar. In fact, this ultra-effective cooler hides perfectly behind the upper portion of the grill and flow-tie thanks to a custom bracket which puts it out of view.
From there, the next big consideration is oil delivery. With your OEM cooler out of the way, we can now install the Improved Racing block of plate. This unit is not only absolutely gorgeous, but it fits perfectly, and includes the -10AN bosses that you need to run proper AN lines and fittings.
The next consideration is temperature control. Our solution is another Improved Racing piece of art, by way of their High Flow inline thermostat. The beauty of this unit lies in it’s ability to allow a very small amount of oil to pass through when closed, which helps bring the stored oil within the cooler to a similar temperature, preventing cold oil, from shocking the system when the thermostat opens. Our optional thermostat includes a 185F thermostat.
Improved Racing maintains exceptionally high quality-control standards. Every single Improved Racing thermostat undergoes rigorous inspection, functional testing, and certification before it leaves their doors. They manufacture all of them in the USA to the strictest standards and back them with a lifetime warranty – your guarantee of lasting performance and peace of mind. This is just one of the reasons we partnered with the team at Improved Racing for these two critical components. Because your car deserves the best.
Bringing them all together is a pair of braided -10AN hose and all of the AN fittings you will need for a super clean and efficient system. We also provide you with a high quality block off kit that allows you to remove the all of the OEM oil cooler lines for a cleaner look, buy installing one 5/8” hose cap and one 5/8” anodized aluminum quick lock cap.
HP RATING; based on the size and location of this #8066 bar and plate cooler, we recommend this option for street cars up to 900rwhp only. Making more power than that? then we recommend you consider our larger Stage.II Oil Cooler Package that includes larger 12AN lines, a larger oil cooler that holds 30% more fluid, and quick connect AN lines provided by DYME.
OIL PRESSURE; On our 900+rwhp test car with a Katech oil pump we saw no change in oil pressure before and after the oil cooler installation. Hot idle before and after ranges from 31.5 - 33.5psi. 6000k + RPM at WOT ranges from 75 - 90psi. No change after the cooler was installed.
VALUE; Our goal was to not only provide you with the best turn-key oil cooling system on the market, but to save you over $450 on parts when purchased as a bundle. We are confident that you will love the design, fitment, attention to detail and performance of this Stage.I oil cooling package.
NEW OPTION AVAILABLE; For those who wish to mount this solution to the OEM crash bar vs. installing our signature high flow crash bar, we now offer a pair of custom laser cut steel brackets with a powder coat finish. These brackets includes precision fit laser cut 1/8” thick rubber gasket mounting pads as well as M8 × 1.25mm Stainless Steel mounting bolts. These brackets require you to tap (3) existing holes found in the OEM crash bar, as well as drill and tap (3) additional for a more stable connection.
This option is only $185 and can be selected below.
What’s in the box;
GMS High Flow Impact Bar Assembly (optional)
Improved Racing Block Off Plate (with hardware)
CSF Dual Pass Oil Cooler (with -10AN male fittings)
Raceflux -10 AN Fittings & braided hose (cut to length)
GMS OEM Oil Cooler Delete fittings (Silicone + Billet Cap)
GMS Brackets to mount direct to the OEM Crash Bar (optional)
(2) 12" lengths of 2,000F Thermal Wrap to protect from headers
Improved Racing High Flow In-line Thermostat + Bracket (optional)
What YOU will need to provide;
Motor Oil (this kit will add almost 2.0 additional quarts) We prefer DRIVEN HP-X.
Patience and attention to detail for installation... or, someone like that, who you trust with your beloved, adorned, magnificent, earth shaking, alarm sounding ZL1.
Optional M8 × 1.25mm drill and tap tool for those who wish to mount this cooler to the OEM crash bar using our optional brackets.
Fitment: 2017-2024 Camaro ZL1. Note; this unit will not fit with the PLM heat exchanger.
Impact Bar Install Guide can be downloaded by clicking THIS link.
Oil Cooler Install Guide can be downloaded by clicking THIS link.
If this is your first time seeing the Banks iDash Digital Gauges, you are in for a real treat! Not just because this is the GEN.2 PRO design with a TON more features, but because even before that, this was and will now continue to be the most versatile Digital gauge on the market!
Banks iDash PRO DATA is not only the smallest, and most powerful plug-n-play OBD-II monitor and control interface on the market, it is easily the BEST LOOKING. With its easy to read 2- to 8-gauge user-selectable LCD display, the iDash Data Monster reads a multitude of engine parameters and internal data directly from the vehicle's ECM via OBD-II. Custom color selections help it blend in with the 6th Gen Camaro Cluster, for am OEM look and feel. It also opens a whole new world of Banks' exclusive calculated parameters not available on any other device. One great feature is the “low and high” alerts for any engine parameter. Great for low oil pressure, or temp, shift lights, IAT’s and more! Monitor max and min values for a user-selectable list of parameters. Read and clear trouble codes on-the-fly. Customize the navigation button and LCD display colors, brightness, and even the rate at which they dim at night. Daisy chain 4 iDash gauges and view up to 32 parameters simultaneously. Add Banks sensor modules direct into the back of the iDash PRO (no longer need the 4-channel analog module) in order to add 4-channel thermocouple module, Wideband 02 sensor, liquid and air temp sensors, and AirMouse Ambient Air Density Module for nearly infinite vehicle and weather analysis. If you are in need of real time data logging capability, then you need the iDash PRO DATA.
Let’s face it, we expect a lot from our cars, and spend a lot of time trying to squeeze every last HP from them. You deserve to have the very best data, delivered in the very best set of high performance gauge’s on the market.
KEY FEATURES
Customizable LED gauge display with Auto-Dimming Feature.
Avoid costly repairs by monitoring important sensors in real time.
Read Boost Pressure, IAT’s, Oil Temp & Pressure and more!
Easy to expand with additional gauges for even more data.
Displays accurate values your OEM dash gauges filter.
Includes patented OBDII Density (exclusive to Banks).
Fits standard 52mm (2-1/16 inch) gauge mounts
View Critical Data your dash does not display.
Display 2-8 Data readings per gauge.
Read up to 80 OBDII Mode 01 values.
Bluetooth app for setup and control.
Free over-the-air firmware updates.
Over 300 parameters available.
Log up to 20 min/max values.
Whats in the box;
(1) Banks iDash PRO #66710 with OBD.II Connector and APP control.
(1) Banks iDash PRO Mounting Ring Kit #66716
What you should plan on providing;
Gauge Mounts or Clusters. (We prefer the ZZP dual a-pillar cluster and now offer it in our store for faster shipping)
Or upgrading to the Stage.II Wideband Package for even more control.
iDash PRO INSTALL + APP + SETUP GUIDES FOUND BY CLICKING THIS LINK.
During the development of our Stage.III Super Charger Cooling System, it was clear we needed an auxiliary coolant reservoir in order to not only help prime the OEM HX Pump, but to provide a proper pressure cap which allows the coolant within the heat exchanger system to expand and contract as needed during normal driving, and also prevents an overpressure situation which could damage the pump and or cause a leak in the system.
We tested several existing brands to start, hoping to be able to utilize a part that is already produced at scale in order to pass on maximum savings, and just when we about ran out of options, we found the hidden Edelbrock canister which is only found within the E-Force Supercharger Packages.
The location of the canister was just as important to us. Our goal was to keep it away from the heat of the headers which eliminated it from the common location on the drivers side strut brace which unfortunately places is directly above the red hot headers, and seems to be counter intuitive to the efforts of keeping this fluid as cool as possible. The other easy location is directly in front of the thermostat, but that is where most of the catch can offerings are used (including my Might Mouse Catch Can). That left us only one small space to try and use. One that required the perfect size reservoir, and a custom 2-piece bracket design in order for it to fit. After several weeks and 6 iterations, the solution was not only complete, it was effective, looked OEM and costs ½ of what some of the other customs solutions cost.
This location now provides the perfect place to add fluid in order to prime the pump, and keeps the canister away from the direct heat of the headers, while providing large 3/4” hose barbs which allows us to upgrade all of the hose in the HX system to 3/4” between the pump, fender tank and heat exchangers for even more flow, and system capacity.
For those who already have or wish to use our DMS fender tank, they do work great in combination, but the fender tank does not replace the need for this reservoir. Although the DMS Fender Tank allows for easy system filling, and easy bleeding due to the “high point” of the system factor, it does not provide a pressure cap, and does not allow for easy pump priming. Which is why we added this perfectly fit Edelbrock coolant reservoir to the system and mounted it in a way that allows for easy pump priming as it’s placed between the ECU and engine coolant tank using a custom bracket that bolts to the top of the OEM PCV box.
When it comes time to fill / prime the system, we always begin filling from the reservoir while keeping the fender tank lid open until the system fills enough to remove all major air pockets, and the coolant reservoir is nearly full, and flowing freely. At that point we tighten the 16psi pressure cap, and allow the system to continue to bleed and burp from the fender tank and pressure relief valve provided for the top of the main front HX. Once the system is bleed and the fender tank is approximately 90% full we cap the fender tank and continue to circulate the system allowing it to build pressure and move any air bubbles to the highest point (the fender tank) After 5 minutes we crack open the tank to allow the air to escape, then cap and repeat a few more times for good measure. Note; once the system is full we do not recommend opening the small reservoirs pressure cap, as it sits below the supercharger bricks and will be full and under pressure. The reservoir is only opened when the system has been emptied and is ready to refill. Periodic fillings should be serviced from the fender tank.
Note; Although this is technically an expansion tank, I am refraining to use that term, as it’s not designed to add capacity, it’s designed to be a filling / pump priming point. That said, this reservoir does holds approx. 3.5 cups or .85L of fluid and includes a bottom center mounted 3/4” barb and a top side inlet 3/4” barb. Expansion tank? not really…
Note: This is a universal kit, that comes with no hose, due to so many variations in everyone’s HX coolant set-up’s. Need help designing your cooling system? Email us at info@griffin-motorsports.com for help. We would love to design you the perfect cooling system for your application. Although this solution pairs best with our Crossover Delete Package, it can be used without it. Also; if you want some of the ugly blue silicone hose or black hose let me know… I keep both in stock :)
Whats in the box:
(1) 16psi Pressure Release Cap
(1) Edelbrock Coolant Reservoir “expansion tank”
(1) Pair of Powder Coated Brackets with SS Hardware
What YOU will need to provide:
Patience and attention to detail for installation... or, someone like that, who you trust with your beloved, adorned, magnificent, earth shaking, alarm sounding Camaro ZL1.
Additional connectors, 3/4” silicone hoses and fittings will be needed depending on your existing system design or preferred routing path. Email us at info@griffin-motorsports.com for help. We would love to design you the perfect cooling system for your application.
More 50/50 coolant. Some nice hose pinch clamps are not required, but a good addition for peace of mind.
Fitment: 2017+ Camaro ZL1
INSTALL GUIDE CAN BE DOWNLOADED HERE.
It is widely known that OEM super-charger cooling system on 6th generation Camaro ZL1's is inadequate. Even in stock form, the OEM system has a hard time keeping IAT's cool in hot climates or racing conditions. This problem is exponentialy worse once you start turning up the boost, leaving little time before your ECM starts to pull timing which leaves a lot of power on the table, instead of at the tire where it belongs.
Griffin Motorsports takes a multi-stage multi-faceted approach to this solution making sure we have a cost-savings package for every budget and power level.
Our Stage.I solution starts with the most popular front HX on the market for 6th gen. Camaro's. This custom DMS designed and CSF built beauty not only increased the size of the HX but also increased its efficiency through the use of CSF's B tube technology and ultra efficient multi-louvered fins. As you may have already figured out, upgrading to a high flow coolant pump is useless if you have major system restrictions like factory heat exchangers. DMS helped alleviate these restrictions and added flexibility with the addition of -12ORB inlet/outlet fittings. This allows the end user to choose the inlets/outlet size of either -12an (3/4 Inch) or 3/4 Hose barb much like OEM.
Not only is this CSF built beauty more efficient and more durable than OEM but combined with the 2 gallon fender tank this set also holds approx. 2,150% more fluid than the OEM HX. (43 cups vs 2 cups).
With the much larger and more efficient main HX in place, the next step to lower IAT's is adding more volume to the system which makes the coolant temp much slower to raise temps and much faster to decrease them. This DMS designed and built coolant expansion tank not only adds 2 gallons of additional coolant capacity, but it allows you to fill and bleed the system with incredible easy with the addition of a 1.5" Filler cap and the included funnel that aids in filling the tank through the fender opening. This additional volume will not only help keep intake air temps lower but it will also allow air to escape the system making the system more efficient overall. Like many of you have seen or experienced yourself, the OEM coolant system is sealed, and can be very hard to bleed all of the bubbles out of the system. Matt and the team at DMS were one of the first on the market with this design, and we are excited to be able to add this to our cooling packages.
The DMS fender tank is constructed out of durable .125" aluminum, expertly tig welded in house and powdered coated in a satin black finish. It features -12 ORB inlet/outlet barbs with -12an ORB fittings allowing you to run 3/4” hose or upgrade to AN lines and fitting. Cost includes a pair of pre-made -12an feed and return lines along with all hardware for trouble free installation.
Rounding out the parts list is our signature High Flow Impact Bar which not only provides a clear view of your new massive DMS heat exchanger for a clear aesthetic improvement, but also the improvement in airflow. Adding to this innovative patent pending design is a pair of custom two-piece CNC’d aluminum air deflectors that help prevent air from trapping at the bolt flanges. Rather, they channel to either the main or auxiliary coolers. Outfitted with a heavy duty front tow hook coupler and treated to a matte black powder coated finish, this product was design to offer a turn-key solution to improve a poorly designed OEM part. This product ships with installation instructions and hardware. Although this product was literally designed in the garage, this 3D modeled assembly is fabricated using precision laser cut parts for a professional fit. Note: This package ships in (3) separate boxes.
What’s in the boxes:
GMS High Flow Impact Bar + Tow Hook Coupler
Left and Right Black Aluminum Air Deflectors
DMS Fender Tank with hoses and fittings
DMS Heat Exchanger with fittings
Complete Hardware Kit
Installation Instructions
What YOU will need to provide:
Coolant, Tools, Patience and attention to detail for installation... or, someone like that, who you trust with your beloved, adorned, magnificent, earth shaking, alarm sounding ZL1.
Basic hand tools. Although this can be done with one person, in a garage with jack stands, having an extra set of hands available to handle the front bumper fascia is helpful.
Fitment: 2017-2024 Camaro ZL1 (direct fit with no modifications needed) Note; this unit will not fit with the PLM heat exchanger.
2017-2024 Camaro SS (direct fit with minor modifications needed to the backside of the bumper by trimming 2 plastic clips)
INSTALL GUIDE can be downloaded by clicking THIS link. Please read completely before starting the installation.
Why Camaro ZL1 Cooling Mods Matter
The Camaro ZL1 is built to perform, but sustained high-output driving exposes the limitations of its factory cooling system. For owners pushing their builds harder, on the street or at the track, upgrading critical components becomes less of an option and more of a requirement. Here’s why ZL1 cooling mods are essential:
Factory Cooling Isn’t Built For Extended Abuse
Chevy’s stock system works well under average conditions, but it wasn’t engineered for prolonged aggressive use in addition to adding power. As temperatures rise, timing gets pulled, power output decreases, and critical systems can fail, especially during track days or repeated pulls.
Heat Soak Robs Power
Once the intake air temperature rises above 130F, your ECU pulls timing to protect the engine. This results in noticeable power loss, particularly after the car has been running at high temperatures for a while. Upgraded Intercoolers and heat exchangers help mitigate the heat soak effect, maintaining consistent power over time.
Longevity Requires Better Thermal Management
Consistent cooling isn’t just about performance. It is also about protection. Overheated components wear faster, and coolant temps that spike under pressure put long-term strain on your engine, transmission, and blower.
Cooling Mods Unlock More Performance Potential
When you reduce heat, you create headroom. More headroom means you can safely run more boost, extract more horsepower, and trust your car to hold it together without pulling timing or triggering limp mode.
Camaro ZL1 Cooling Mods For Better Intake Temps
Intake air temperature (IAT) plays a critical role in engine performance, especially on boosted platforms like the ZL1. As air heats up, it becomes less dense, which reduces power and increases the risk of detonation. To keep IATs under control, especially under load, we need to address the shortfalls of the ZL1 cooling system.
The Stock Intercooler is NOT enough.
Although the factory supercharger heat exchanger system does utilize (4) separate heat exchangers to reduce your IAT’s up to 150F, the lack of system volume means it can very quickly become heat soaked, and is very hard to overcome without an extended cool down effort. This is why upgrading the size of your intercoolers as well as the addition of a 2 gallon fender tank can do wonders to reduce heat soak thanks to the additional thermal mass.
Upgraded Heat Exchangers / Intercoolers Improve Air Density
Aftermarket intercooler bricks with a larger surface area and improved flow characteristics extract more heat from the air before it enters the cylinders. The result is denser, cooler air that supports more timing and higher horsepower without knocking. These work in tandem with our larger triple heat exchanger sets to remove the heat from the system and provide the coldest coolant possible back into our larger intercooler bricks.
Pair With A ZL1 Heat Exchanger For Maximum Efficiency
While the intercooler brick handles the immediate cooling inside the blower, pairing it with a high-performance ZL1 heat exchanger increases coolant capacity and improves the entire system’s thermal efficiency. This combination helps keep IATs stable even under aggressive conditions.
Upgrading To A High-Performance ZL1 Heat Exchanger
The heat exchanger is one of the most important components in the ZL1's cooling loop. It works by cooling the liquid that circulates through the supercharger intercooler system. When you upgrade these 3 parts, you're directly improving your car’s ability to manage heat under pressure. Here’s what you need to know:
Stock Heat Exchangers Reach Their Limit Quickly
The factory heat exchanger isn’t designed to withstand extended high-performance use. During back-to-back pulls or extended track sessions, coolant temperatures spike and take longer to return to normal, which affects overall performance.Not only does our triple HX package look better than OEM, but these CSF built beauties more efficient and more durable than OEM and they also help add more capacity to the supercharger cooling system. Combined this trio holds approx. 235% more fluid (14 cups vs 6 cups) which adds just over ½ gallon of HX coolant with this set alone.
Larger Heat Exchangers Dissipate More Heat
Aftermarket ZL1 heat exchanger upgrades often feature thicker cores, larger surface areas, and better fluid flow. These improvements help transfer heat more efficiently, leading to lower intake temperatures and quicker recovery between runs.
Performance Gains Are Noticeable
Cooler fluid temperatures mean your intercooler stays more effective throughout your drive. The result is a more stable power band and improved drivability when you're pushing the limits. This is especially critical in warm climates or during summer track days.
Designed To Integrate With Other Cooling Mods
A high-performance heat exchanger is most effective when combined with other ZL1 cooling upgrades. It supports the overall system by increasing thermal capacity and enabling the intercooler and radiator to perform their functions more effectively. This is why we combined these parts into our stage I, 2 and 3 super charger cooling packages.
The Benefits Of A ZL1 Radiator Upgrade
The radiator is the heart of your ZL1’s engine cooling system. While often overlooked in favor of intercooler and heat exchanger mods, the radiator plays a vital role in managing engine temperatures during aggressive driving. A ZL1 radiator upgrade brings noticeable improvements in both performance and reliability:
Factory Radiators Struggle With Prolonged Load
The stock radiator is designed for general use, not prolonged high-RPM operation. Under heavy load, especially on hot days or track environments, it may struggle to keep coolant temperatures in check. This can lead to heat soak, reduced power, and premature wear.
Upgraded Radiators Increase Cooling Capacity
High-performance radiators typically feature larger cores, higher fin density, and improved materials that enable more efficient heat transfer. The result is better thermal control under load, helping your engine stay in the optimal temperature range.
Supports Long-Term Engine Health
Maintaining stable coolant temperatures isn't just about performance. It also reduces wear on critical engine components. A radiator upgrade can help prevent overheating-related failures and support long-term reliability, even as power levels increase.
Ideal For Track Days And High-Horsepower Builds
If your ZL1 sees regular track time or has been modified beyond stock, a radiator upgrade becomes even more important. Combined with other ZL1 cooling system improvements, it helps create a balanced setup that can handle the demands of spirited driving without compromise.
ZL1 Cooling System Improvements That Deliver Results
Cooling mods work best when they’re treated as a complete system, not as isolated upgrades. Each component, the intercooler, heat exchanger, and radiator, plays a role in keeping temperatures under control. When they’re all upgraded together, the gains compound in both consistency and performance. Here’s how that comes together:
System Balance Matters
Upgrading only one part of the system can create bottlenecks. For example, a larger intercooler can become less effective if it’s still relying on a factory heat exchanger. A balanced approach ensures that all parts work together efficiently, without overloading any single component.
Reduced Heat Means More Timing And Safer Boost
Lower intake and coolant temperatures allow the ECU to maintain more aggressive ignition timing without risk. This unlocks more power and improves throttle response, especially under heavy load or repeated acceleration.
Better Recovery Equals More Seat Time
When your system recovers faster from heat buildup, you spend less time backing off and more time driving at full potential, whether you're making passes or running laps. Upgraded cooling ensures consistent performance and maintains your confidence.
Supports The Next Stage Of Modifications
Comprehensive ZL1 cooling upgrades lay the groundwork for more advanced modifications, such as pulley changes, camshaft upgrades, or fuel system enhancements. Without adequate cooling, those upgrades won’t perform to their full potential, and can lead to long-term damage.
How To Choose The Right ZL1 Cooling Upgrades For Your Build
Not every ZL1 build has the same goals. Some owners are chasing horsepower, while others prioritize lap times or long-term reliability. Choosing the right cooling upgrades depends on how you drive, where you drive, and how far you plan to take your build. Here’s how to approach it:
Consider Your Driving Environment
Daily driving in a hot climate puts different stress on your cooling system than a weekend at the track. High ambient temperatures and stop-and-go traffic necessitate the use of improved heat exchangers and radiators. Track use demands a complete system approach with added fluid capacity and faster recovery.
Match Cooling To Power Goals
If you're running stock boost with a tune, you might only need an intercooler or heat exchanger upgrade. But once you step into pulley changes or forced induction upgrades, it’s essential to support the extra heat with all-around ZL1 cooling system improvements.
Look For Compatibility And Ease Of Installation
Griffin Motorsports offers cooling upgrades specifically designed for the ZL1 platform, ensuring no guesswork or modification during installation. Products are engineered to work together, allowing you to build your system piece by piece or all at once.
Plan For The Future
Even if your current setup is mild, investing in high-quality components now means you won’t have to replace them later when your build evolves. Choosing upgrades that align with your goals saves time and money in the long run.
ZL1 Cooling Upgrades At Griffin Motorsports
When it comes to upgrading your ZL1’s cooling system, quality and compatibility matter. At Griffin Motorsports, we offer a curated selection of cooling products built specifically for high-performance Camaro applications. Whether you're looking for a more efficient ZL1 heat exchanger, a heavy-duty ZL1 radiator upgrade, or top-tier ZL1 intercooler mods, our parts are track-tested and performance-proven.
Our team understands the platform and knows what it takes to keep a high-powered ZL1 running strong. Each product we carry is carefully selected for its fit, durability, and real-world results. From individual components to complete ZL1 cooling system improvements, you’ll find everything you need to keep your build cool under pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions About ZL1 Cooling Mods
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One of the earliest signs is a noticeable drop in performance after repeated pulls or aggressive driving. Rising IATs and slower recovery between runs are key indicators. The easiest way to help determine this is by monitoring and data-logging using one of our Banks iDash gauge packages.
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There are alot of variables here like driving styles, location and elevation. In general we suggest you start tracking your IAT’s in your first round of mods (intake, exhaust) etc… and plan to start with cooling mods at the same time you start adding boost.
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Yes, drag-focused setups often prioritize rapid intake, temp recovery, and short bursts of high efficiency. Our larger Intercooler bricks paired with a higher flowing pump and quick-dissipating heat exchangers are ideal for that application.
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While overkill is rare, mismatched parts can create inefficiencies. For example, installing an oversized radiator without proper airflow can actually reduce cooling effectiveness.
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Indirectly, yes. By stabilizing temperatures, the ECU doesn't have to pull timing as aggressively, which can slightly improve part-throttle efficiency under certain conditions.
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Most aftermarket cooling setups are compatible with GM-approved coolant, but some performance systems may recommend a specific blend or additive for optimal thermal transfer.
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Absolutely. Once you step into larger blowers or higher boost levels, heat builds exponentially. Without supporting cooling mods, intake temps can spike quickly, leading to major power loss.