Sittin around day dreaming???

[Critter]

I know that there was never a 69-72 Blazer/Jimmy offered from the factory with a big block. I also know that there was never a big block offered in the 4x4 trucks. So I have no problems with the lack of a big block in a 4x4 Blazer, but why didn't they offer one in a 2wd Blazer. They put them in 1/2 ton 2wd trucks all day long, and we all know that a Blazer and a truck are basically identical where it counts. Is there any physical reason or is it just something that never happened for no particular reason??? I've never heard any kind of explanation for this. Sorry for the random thoughts, my mind tends to wander...

[swyfor5]

Right on, my build is on hold because I need a building for my build!

[1956cameo]

I am not sure why they didn't do it; especially since that was back when car manufacturers seemed fairly willing to build a car however the buyer wanted it. I know there were many COPO cars from GM that had big blocks in them; I guess back then no body wanted to pay the cost of special ordering a big block truck. Don't worry Critter when I am done with my 72 it will be done exactly as if GM made a factory 402 blazer.

[old man jimmy]

actually I did try to order mine with the big block. After checking, the dealer told my they wouldn't do it because of the warrenty, and the extra torque. They didn't want to be replacing a bunch of running gear that would hold up to the small block.

[vtblazer]

Originally Posted by old man jimmy

actually I did try to order mine with the big block. After checking, the dealer told my they wouldn't do it because of the warrenty, and the extra torque. They didn't want to be replacing a bunch of running gear that would hold up to the small block.

Luv reading your post's, 1st hand accounts are the best!

[Jtrux]

Originally Posted by old man jimmy

actually I did try to order mine with the big block. After checking, the dealer told my they wouldn't do it because of the warrenty, and the extra torque. They didn't want to be replacing a bunch of running gear that would hold up to the small block.

That is so cool!

[pound41]

I would think it would have to do with the firewall cowl issue as well since a blazer windshield frame was supposedly different with the extra support. I know back then more trucks that not were personally ordered. I live in Washington DC Metro area where between MD, VA and DC we have/had dozens of dealerships My Dad wanted a 1972 all black no a/c, powersteering 402/400/411 1/2 ton stepside. I went with him to just about every dealership in our area and No one wanted to or said they could order that truck. Finally one guy did. Based on our experience I am suprised there are as many big block trucks as there are even though the number is small in comparison to what it could have been.

[Critter]

Originally Posted by old man jimmy

actually I did try to order mine with the big block. After checking, the dealer told my they wouldn't do it because of the warrenty, and the extra torque. They didn't want to be replacing a bunch of running gear that would hold up to the small block.

Originally Posted by vtblazer

Luv reading your post's, 1st hand accounts are the best!

Originally Posted by Jtrux

That is so cool!

on all accounts above, but old man jimmy yours is 4x4 if I'm not mistaken. They told you "no" just like they told everyone with a 4x4 truck wanting a big block. I still don't get why a big block was never offered in a 2wd Blazer when it was available in a 2wd truck with the exact same running gear??? Maybe we will never know.

[pound41]

Yes, a two wheel drive pickup is the same as a blazer. Thats my point I was young but have a Great memory! No one and I am talking easily over 10 dealerships more like 20 said they could not order that truck. This is how it would go we would go in and sit down. My Dad would get out his notebook and start rattling off what he wanted. There would be a series of trips from the salesman to the managers office. Phone calls being made. Then them telling him we cannot order that truck. I liked hanging out with my Dad but I would get nervous when it got heated and he would say What the *^^&%^ do you mean you can't order that truck! My dad was a service station owner and he knew what was available etc. I remember one salesman saying Mr. I can't order that truck even if I could If you didn't take it I never be able to sell a truck like that Which enraged my Dad even more. I remember When this Young saleman said You want that truck I know how to get that truck and he did and it was something. Its like the 70/71 SS 454 Monte carlo it appears Chevrolet really didn't want you to know or have 454 in them. I mean they promote the heck out of the Chevelles, camaros and Novas

[old man jimmy]

I have no idea about the 2 wd. Was only shopping for the 4x4s. But did try chevy first. They wouldn't take my offer. GMC did. But you're right some dealers seem to have more pull. I ordered a 70 country squire with the 429 cobra jet. Was made in LA, but came in without exhause because they didn't have any to fit a wagon. Ah the good old days. I don't even know if you can still order new ones anymore. Been out of the market for many years. Still like the old ones I kept. And at least I can fix them.

[too much stuff]

Just curious, but did all the 2wd blazers/jimmys with V-8s have the engine mounted in the front position like a pickup?

[Classic Heartbeat]

Just curious, but did all the 2wd blazers/jimmys with V-8s have the engine mounted in the front position like a pickup?

Yes they did. WES