I’ve got a 1994 S-10, 4.3L V6, 5-speed, 4WD. My stock radiator is on its way out, so I need to replace it anyway. Since I don’t have A/C right now but plan on adding it later, I’d like to upgrade to a bigger radiator now.

Best drop in upgrade from the stock radiator?Whether you recommend a 2-row or 3-row aluminum core.Any fitment issues with hose angles, mounts, or fan clearance.If you’ve used an A/C model radiator on a non-A/C truck without problems.

Different radiator for AC???....please, do go on.....

 

I'd stick to a stock replacement and keep it simple. Others have used the 4.3L radiator for their V8 swaps with out issues so it would stand to reason there aren't any cooling advantages worth chasing the rabbit down the hole by changing your radiator.

I say this because back in 2017 I upgraded my radiator to a 3-row all aluminum radiator. At the time my radiator was leaking and I decided to take the opportunity to convert my 2003 4.3L to use an electric fan and also upgrade. A couple years later the aluminum radiator failed so I threw in a factory style replacement from O'Reilly. There was no difference in my truck's operating temperatures.

Just trying to help you save some money.

 

My stock radiator is on its way out, I’d like to upgrade to a bigger radiator now.

your stock radiator, the V6, not the 4 cyl, has been proven to cool 500 hp V8 swaps with ac on in Az desert 115 degree weather.
So buy a stock replacement and carry on.
unless you want to buy one of those cool aluminum moshimoto aluminum rads so you look cool at the local hang out, while your hood is open showing off your CAI and bright red wiring cover kits.
I dig it, have some fun, splurge..treat that 4.3 to some sweet love and bling on playa, bling on..

 

I kept the stock radiator but switched to the heavy duty waterpump (cast impeller instead of the stamped steel plate) handles Palm Springs in Summer with the AC on.

 

It has been proven that a 2-row with 1-inch tubes will outperform a 3-row, so don't waste money on a 3-row.