Blazer Build Options
 

Okay, looking for informative input here.
Building a 4x4 blazer for my daughter to have as a driver.

I've built a good/solid blazer body from several different trucks/blazers so this isn't a survivor or anything,
just a 'little of everything' kinda build.
The blazer's complete but we know we won't be using factory interior already.

I'm picking up a 95 burb and I'm trying to decide if cutting the burb frame down and using it complete, drive train and all is the way to go or just do the engine/tranny swap into the original blazer frame...?

I like the idea of using all the 95 running gear but the electronics could get interesting.
Other biggies might be, steering column, ABS brake issues, master/booster fitment...I think the list could go on and on...

:fb: :fb:

Re: Blazer Build Options
 

This is wild,By the time I read options,daughter,constructed body I was going to suggest a late-model IFS version for the little lady.Especially since it`s in your corral and you don`t want to get repetitive.Go for it,you hit the nail on the head right off the bat(er,hammer?).
Edit:Don`t forget a`68 front clip,of course.

Re: Blazer Build Options
 

For me, mechanical problems are much easier to overcome than electrical. If it was me, I'd use your existing Blazer frame, and build from it. Modifications such as fuel injection or a 4 speed automatic are simple swaps when you have a good wiring harness. Just my 2 cents.

Re: Blazer Build Options
 

As a daily driver, I would tend to try to use the new technology especially the fuel injection vortec and the overdrive transmission. The rest is really pretty basic but like you know, electronics can get a wee bit interesting but just think, after you master it, you can become the resource for every dumb, lazy, sob on this board who is too cheap to invest in a book or research. Could probably make mega $$$ providing guidance to jerks like me!!("Da, does anyone know where this wire goes and why??? What, Me buy a shop manual--when I can just ask everyone else to do the investigative work----!")hehehehe

Re: Blazer Build Options
 

Personally I'd swap the vortec engine and 4speed OD into the K5. The newer frames just hang low and the IFS may ride nice but I'd rather work on a solid axle. Softride springs late model swaybars ICE cold ac pwr windows locks, cruse. Sounds like you have a big project ahead. Sound fun though

Re: Blazer Build Options
 

I was going to do the same thing except 68 burb on 95 burb frame. I would try to use the new stuff on the old frame. The new technology is nice, safe and comfortable as compared to the solid front axle. It is going to be a lot of work, but cut it in the middle and splice it together, if it works now it will work a few feet shorter and all that dash stuff can fit in the Blazer with some work, use it all, even the ABS will work.

Re: Blazer Build Options
 

Remember that 72 crew bulit by Ricks with the late model IFS and dash? I'm not sure if it had a late model frame or the IFS was grafted to the original frame. Check out the ricks web site (I believe the URL is banned here so you'll have to look it up yourself).

Re: Blazer Build Options
 

Check this out VT

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Chevr...17882850QQrdZ1

Re: Blazer Build Options
 

VT,

I put a TBI system into my 71 blazer. I started with a late 80's vortec 350, and added the commander 950 FI system by Holley. It has the advantage over a transplated system that 1) It's configurable for any engine combination, not hard-coded like the GM one, and 2) It doesn't have any of the other body/security features built into it like the GM one.

Probably a system like that with a TH350 or 700r4 would be the best bet. The brakes/suspension, etc of the Blazer are just as good as anything you'll get up until '87. You just miss out on the ABS, really.

Brian

Re: Blazer Build Options
 

Yeah, I like the way the truck is done, never though to do it that way, but a saws all and lots of welding and it will work. Just oper the tahoe up and set the Blazer skin on it and you have all the modern conveniences with cool exterior of a 30+yr old Blazer. I think the IFS and stuff could be grafted to the K5 frame as well, but you better know how to weld, cause if the front end breaks, well you know what. The factory welds them together, so if you use there factory seems and weld it good (6011 first then 7018) it will hold and be way cool.!!

Re: Blazer Build Options
 

Ya know, that build wouldn't be for the faint of heart, but MAN would the end product be COOL!!!