Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Absolutely. Check with a reputable local radiator repair shop. You may save enough over the aluminum setup to fund the purchase of an OEM Am/Fm radio :) Some radiators may not be repairable though - I went through two before finding a third that was usable. On a related note, do you have the fan shroud and its lower mounting clips?

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Yes I do. I'm going to need to save money anywhere I can now. I'm making a big change of plans to my build.

Hint - I will have my own garage.. I'll wait to post pics before I fill everyone in.

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

If the clutch fan is good, you wont notice any real power loss. Make sure you use a good factory shroud.

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Is there way to tell if the clutch fan is good while it's off?

I still have the factory shroud.. one of the clips is missing, most likely when I removed it must of fallen off and got kicked around somewhere

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Nice Blazer!
The quality of your work is top notch and you will have one of the nicest Blazers anywhere when you are done.

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Thanks, Brian! That means a lot to me.

I've decided I'm going to strip the K5 down completely and have it painted. Going all out with full restore.

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

I've been busy and haven't posted in a while. I have quick update and will have more this upcoming weekend.

I moved into my new place that has it's own garage. First thing I'm doing is making it shop ready to fit the rolling chassis in while the body is at the body shop.

I built this pulley system to hold the top above the garage door. I can walk underneath it without hitting my head. Gives me plenty of clearance

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

I've made the decision to go all out. The body and panels will be stripped and painted Dark Olive, like the original.

I've made some progress in the disassembly process.

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

more pics

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Your blazer looks really solid.
Keep up the good work.

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Looks solid! Don't let the neighborhood assoc give you grief :)

As for the door strikers, were these bolted into threads/nutserts that are somehow affixed to the pillar? On pickups there is a backing plate which will drop into the cab when the striker bolts are removed but not sure if K5's are the same. I have a fresh set of parkerized strikers I want to swap in but am afraid to drop the backing attachment (whatever it is) if loose then have to remove the rear panels etc. to retrieve them.

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Looking good, The body looks good already, she is going to be a stunner The hard top has an unusual metal receiver for top of window? .... also ( the radiator in the photo, looks like a replacement to me, not Original.)

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Man that is a really nice tub. This is a very worthy candidate.

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Unusual metal receiver - I'm not quite sure I understand what your referencing. I'm an amateur so sometimes I need things explained or even better pictures with arrows pointing the part. :new:

What's the best way to tell if it's the original radiator? Is there serial number or something I could reference. If it's not the original, I might as well order a new one of those brass/metal ones that ClassicHeartbeat instead of spending just as much money restoring an aftermarket one

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

It's about 3 weeks away from being completely out of the driveway so the neighbors will be relieved.. haha The body and all the panels will be at the shop and I'll move the rolling chassis into my slim garage :)

I'll have to go home and check on the door strikers and get back to you on that.

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

@Tom @notsolo @Gillnetter and Pete

Thanks a lot for the compliments. I have my ups and downs with this, but I love working on it and I just keep telling myself, when this is all done, I will have one sweet looking K5 that will last a lifetime.

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Updating with some more pics

Rims powder coated rally silver
Attachment 1322054

Attachment 1322055

Cleaned up the hubs caps and rings
Attachment 1322056

Had the hub cap bolts Zinc plated Clear
Attachment 1322057

Went with the white letters facing outward
Attachment 1322058

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Rear Axle powder coated (60% gloss black)
Attachment 1322059
Attachment 1322060

Had the Bolts Zinc plated Clear
Attachment 1322061

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Wow that looks great. I'm really digging the zinc coating.

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Looks like metal channel's on the hard top where the top of the window would fit. ( With window cranked up) never seen this before, maybe this is single wall top specific.

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Been following you since the start. I think it's awesome that you're going all the way....but those axle shots...Wow...they definitely deserve an attaboy!

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

I checked out LMC to see if this is a part they sell and they have them for both the single and double wall tops.

http://www.lmctruck.com/icatalog/cb/full.aspx?Page=13

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

Thanks! The frame is going to get the same powder coating done, too (60% gloss black)

I really like the 60% gloss black.. It's not to glossy and not too plain either. right in the middle.

I read through your build. The body work you're having to deal with is impressive. I don't think I could take something like that on.

Question - do the doors on our trucks separate or was this cut?

Attachment 1323915

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

I've noticed a lot of guys use these support bars between the door jams.

What does this do? Is this something I need to have since I have the doors off and all the other panels.. I'm close to removing the body from the frame

Re: Attempting my first build 72 K5
 

The Tub is like a floppy noodle, the reinforcement bar holds the door opening strait as possible while repairs are done. Any welding that is needed will not interfere with the door closing correctly. Usually the bar is set when the top is on to insure correct alignment...... I think the pieces from LMC are rubber..I am about to glue the rubber door pieces to my hard top, same as the ones #15 in LMC cat- , I can get you a photo of them tomorrow.