The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network







Register or Log In To remove these advertisements.

Go Back   The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network > 47 - Current classic GM Trucks > The 1969 - 1972 Blazers and Jimmys Message Board > 1969 - 1972 Blazers and Jimmys Projects and Builds

Web 67-72chevytrucks.com


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
Old 09-09-2019, 05:30 AM   #1
72K5CSTDarkOlive
Registered User
 
72K5CSTDarkOlive's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Central Coast, CA
Posts: 774
The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

It was almost 2 years ago when I originally finished my Blazer and since then I've logged about 4K miles. I decided to make some changes (which btw is an understatement), and I figured I would start a new thread. Some of you are familiar with my first build and for those who are not, it's called "Attempting my first build"

I've spent the last 3 months planning this out and here's what I'm doing.

1. LS Swap 6.0 (LQ9)

2. Atlas Suspension & Fox Shocks: I'm going to be using their custom 52" progressive front springs and rears with the DIY4x B52 First Gen Hanger Kit https://diy4x.com/product.php?produc...cat=250&page=1

The front springs are 10" longer than stock and this should help soften the ride.

3. Front Swaybar & cross member from a square body.

4. Dakota Digital Gauges

5. Custom Center Console

6. Custom Sound system

7. Updated fuse panel, a relay panel, and switches to control the relays

8. Vintage Air setup

9. Smooth Firewall using Vannatta fabrications 5 piece firewall kit
Attached Images
 
__________________
My Build Thread 72 K5 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=628612

Build version 2.0: 72 K5
6.0 LQ9, 4L80e, NP205
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=793192
____________________________________________
1972 CST K5 Blazer Dark Olive
72K5CSTDarkOlive is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-09-2019, 05:36 AM   #2
72K5CSTDarkOlive
Registered User
 
72K5CSTDarkOlive's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Central Coast, CA
Posts: 774
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

Pulled the 427 SBC out. This was actually taken a couple of months ago.
Attached Images
 
__________________
My Build Thread 72 K5 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=628612

Build version 2.0: 72 K5
6.0 LQ9, 4L80e, NP205
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=793192
____________________________________________
1972 CST K5 Blazer Dark Olive
72K5CSTDarkOlive is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-09-2019, 07:13 AM   #3
72gmguy
Senior Member
 
72gmguy's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: Brigantine NJ
Posts: 821
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

Why the change so soon after you "completed" your build? The truck seemed just right the way it was.
__________________
Jeremy

1969 Blazer 4x4 original cst
1971 Blazer partial 2wd convert
1972 Blazer 4x4 original cst
1970 Blazer 4x4 w/ 2 1/2in lift and 33in tires w/4 wheel camper
1970 4x4 suburban w/ 6in lift and 35in tires
1968 Corvette convertible
1970 Malibu convertible
1959 Brookwood wagon
1972 International Scout ii
72gmguy is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-09-2019, 09:13 AM   #4
Ptjsk
Registered User
 
Join Date: Jan 2018
Location: Northern CA
Posts: 588
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

It sure looks good the way it is, but obvious that you want to change a few things. I'm sure it will come out great.

Pat
Ptjsk is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-09-2019, 06:52 PM   #5
72K5CSTDarkOlive
Registered User
 
72K5CSTDarkOlive's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Central Coast, CA
Posts: 774
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

Quote:
Originally Posted by 72gmguy View Post
Why the change so soon after you "completed" your build? The truck seemed just right the way it was.
The engine I had originally was from West Coast Engines. It was poorly assembled and was basically junk. I then had a local engine builder build me a 427 SBC and at that same time, I converted to EFI using the Holley Sniper and added a new tank with a built-in fuel pump.

The 427 was a bad A** but we got a little in over our heads on the build and it ended up being way too much motor for the Blazer and most importantly for what I intended to use it for. It wasn't very street-friendly and the valve train was high maintenance, especially when using a solid roller setup.

Going the LS route I will have a reliable engine that makes good power and I can drive it long distance or as a daily if I want. I plan to control the engine and trans with the Holley Terminator Max X that was recently released a few months ago.

With the additional electronics (fuel pump, dual fans, seat warmers, e-Locker, ECU, Sound System, etc.) I needed to update my wiring. I was using original style harness from M&H Electric.

I also had a little accident in the garage. A cabinet fell from the wall and smacked right into my quarter panel, so back to the body shop it went. I'll refrain from posting a pic because it would make your stomach sick!

Since it's at the body shop now and with the engine out, I figured I could clean up the firewall. I originally wish I did this the first time around when it was painted and that was to have all the holes filled and a smooth firewall.
__________________
My Build Thread 72 K5 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=628612

Build version 2.0: 72 K5
6.0 LQ9, 4L80e, NP205
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=793192
____________________________________________
1972 CST K5 Blazer Dark Olive
72K5CSTDarkOlive is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-09-2019, 06:53 PM   #6
72K5CSTDarkOlive
Registered User
 
72K5CSTDarkOlive's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Central Coast, CA
Posts: 774
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ptjsk View Post
It sure looks good the way it is, but obvious that you want to change a few things. I'm sure it will come out great.

Pat
What part of Northen California?
__________________
My Build Thread 72 K5 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=628612

Build version 2.0: 72 K5
6.0 LQ9, 4L80e, NP205
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=793192
____________________________________________
1972 CST K5 Blazer Dark Olive
72K5CSTDarkOlive is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-09-2019, 11:10 PM   #7
Ptjsk
Registered User
 
Join Date: Jan 2018
Location: Northern CA
Posts: 588
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

Quote:
Originally Posted by 72K5CSTDarkOlive View Post
What part of Northen California?
We're up near the town of Placerville. Just about half way between Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe.

How about you?

Pat
Ptjsk is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-09-2019, 11:20 PM   #8
72K5CSTDarkOlive
Registered User
 
72K5CSTDarkOlive's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Central Coast, CA
Posts: 774
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ptjsk View Post
We're up near the town of Placerville. Just about half way between Sacramento and South Lake Tahoe.

How about you?

Pat
San Jose
__________________
My Build Thread 72 K5 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=628612

Build version 2.0: 72 K5
6.0 LQ9, 4L80e, NP205
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=793192
____________________________________________
1972 CST K5 Blazer Dark Olive
72K5CSTDarkOlive is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-09-2019, 11:45 PM   #9
72K5CSTDarkOlive
Registered User
 
72K5CSTDarkOlive's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Central Coast, CA
Posts: 774
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

About a month ago I tackled the suspension and front sway bar.

The difference between the Atlas 52" springs and stock.
Name:  IMG_4056.jpg
Views: 3444
Size:  27.7 KB

I used an air chisel to remove the rivets.
Name:  IMG_4058.jpg
Views: 3499
Size:  81.8 KB

used a 2" hole saw to make to mount the new rear shackle which moved back about 4-5".
Name:  IMG_4115~2.jpg
Views: 3449
Size:  87.7 KB
Name:  IMG_4111.jpg
Views: 3434
Size:  56.0 KB

I believe the new shackle mount locations moved the axle either fwd or back about 1/8-1/4" I cant remember which way. The front hanger has 4 predrilled holes and depending on which one you use determines the axle movement from stock location.

Name:  IMG_4118.jpg
Views: 3522
Size:  53.0 KB
__________________
My Build Thread 72 K5 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=628612

Build version 2.0: 72 K5
6.0 LQ9, 4L80e, NP205
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=793192
____________________________________________
1972 CST K5 Blazer Dark Olive
72K5CSTDarkOlive is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-09-2019, 11:57 PM   #10
72K5CSTDarkOlive
Registered User
 
72K5CSTDarkOlive's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Central Coast, CA
Posts: 774
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

I removed the front cross member and then put the sway bar on to determine my new mounting location.

Name:  IMG_20190629_125403.jpg
Views: 3226
Size:  109.1 KB

Getting the square body cross member in was PITA!!!. I'm going to make new brake lines up front since the cross member location moved fwd about 2"
Name:  00100lPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20190629142928656_COVER.jpg
Views: 3166
Size:  105.0 KB

Sway Bay installed.
Name:  00100lPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20190629142935168_COVER.jpg
Views: 3172
Size:  101.3 KB
Name:  IMG_20190629_143919.jpg
Views: 3204
Size:  98.6 KB
__________________
My Build Thread 72 K5 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=628612

Build version 2.0: 72 K5
6.0 LQ9, 4L80e, NP205
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=793192
____________________________________________
1972 CST K5 Blazer Dark Olive
72K5CSTDarkOlive is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-10-2019, 01:11 AM   #11
SeventyOne
Registered User
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: Oakland, Ca
Posts: 1,382
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

Nice - glad you're getting this build (3.0) documented
SeventyOne is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-10-2019, 01:57 AM   #12
tinydb84
Registered User
 
tinydb84's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: San Jose Ca
Posts: 2,871
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

I forgot about this build cool to see it completed. I don't think I could have torn into a freshly completed truck!
__________________
David
Used parts build: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=638991
My brother's Nova: http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...d.php?t=727985
Rear suspension rework: http://www.67-72chevytrucks.com/vboa...d.php?t=750557
Instagram: myfabguy
tinydb84 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-10-2019, 11:26 AM   #13
jaros44sr
Senior Member
 
jaros44sr's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Philadelphia, Pa. 19454
Posts: 9,691
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

I'll watch. enjoyed part a, nice to work on something all clean and shiny! I'd buy your short block, if you weren't on the wrong coast
__________________
Semper Fi...Uncle Sam, you da man

All parts offered to help are free, unless otherwise noted

Dont try this stuff in my build thread, unless you have 55 years of mechanical OTJ training
SAFETY FIRST

AS usual, off topic

They say your mind goes second, can't remember the first


Jim
jaros44sr is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-10-2019, 03:33 PM   #14
C.I.Blazer
Registered User
 
Join Date: Aug 2019
Location: WA State
Posts: 186
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

Thinking about a swap as well so I am definitely interested. Thanks for keeping us posted.
C.I.Blazer is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-10-2019, 09:57 PM   #15
72K5CSTDarkOlive
Registered User
 
72K5CSTDarkOlive's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Central Coast, CA
Posts: 774
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

Quote:
Originally Posted by SeventyOne View Post
Nice - glad you're getting this build (3.0) documented
Not gonna lie. I was feeling lazy about doing it But, I owe it to the members of this board for all the help this site has brought me.

Quote:
Originally Posted by tinydb84 View Post
I forgot about this build cool to see it completed. I don't think I could have torn into a freshly completed truck!
Part of the reason it's back at the body shop

Quote:
Originally Posted by jaros44sr View Post
I'll watch. enjoyed part a, nice to work on something all clean and shiny! I'd buy your short block, if you weren't on the wrong coast
Thanks Jaro. It was a built bottom end with all quality forged components. The engine just belonged in a Camaro or Chevelle.

Quote:
Originally Posted by C.I.Blazer View Post
Thinking about a swap as well so I am definitely interested. Thanks for keeping us posted.
Feel free to ask any particular questions and I'd be more than happy to help.
__________________
My Build Thread 72 K5 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=628612

Build version 2.0: 72 K5
6.0 LQ9, 4L80e, NP205
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=793192
____________________________________________
1972 CST K5 Blazer Dark Olive
72K5CSTDarkOlive is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-10-2019, 10:06 PM   #16
CG
BlahBlahBlah
 
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Wa.
Posts: 19,980
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

So are you keeping the same tire/wheel set up? I think I asked in the past about your lift, its perfect. Are the new springs going to change your stance at all?
CG is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-10-2019, 10:18 PM   #17
72K5CSTDarkOlive
Registered User
 
72K5CSTDarkOlive's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Central Coast, CA
Posts: 774
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

For the LS engine mount, I ended up going with Dirty Dingo. I did extensive research on this subject and after talking directly to Pacific Fabrication and Dirty Dingo I ended up with the latter.

The reason I went with the DD is that they guaranteed me that my stock height leaf springs wouldn't be an issue with the cross member hitting the top of the pumpkin on the differential. (We Shall See!) The only thing I didn't like about the DD is I am going to have to make new brake lines and re-route. The Pacific Fab has cut-outs or notches if you will, in their version and I would have gone with theirs if it didn't require at least a 2" lift.

The install was pretty easy and they provide you with detailed instructions that are easy to follow.
Name:  IMG_20190629_155215.jpg
Views: 3373
Size:  110.3 KB

I had to bend my existing line to allow the cross member to fit. It's binding on the frame so a new custom line will go in it's place.

Name:  MVIMG_20190629_155231.jpg
Views: 3551
Size:  62.5 KB

Name:  IMG_20190629_155558.jpg
Views: 3385
Size:  110.2 KB
__________________
My Build Thread 72 K5 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=628612

Build version 2.0: 72 K5
6.0 LQ9, 4L80e, NP205
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=793192
____________________________________________
1972 CST K5 Blazer Dark Olive
72K5CSTDarkOlive is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-10-2019, 10:39 PM   #18
72K5CSTDarkOlive
Registered User
 
72K5CSTDarkOlive's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Central Coast, CA
Posts: 774
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

Quote:
Originally Posted by CG View Post
So are you keeping the same tire/wheel set up? I think I asked in the past about your lift, its perfect. Are the new springs going to change your stance at all?
The springs should be the same lift. After putting the springs on I couldn't tell a difference. Yes, same wheels/tires. Everything will be the same on the exterior/interior. The only mod I will make to the interior is the custom center console which I plan to make out of using PVC foamboard. It will but up against the original console and extend all the way through to the firewall. This is where I plan to put my 6.5" speakers and a Stereo Receiver. It will also hold my switch panel and a couple of cup holders.

This is the first mock-up I have designed so far. It's a work in progress
Attached Images
  
__________________
My Build Thread 72 K5 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=628612

Build version 2.0: 72 K5
6.0 LQ9, 4L80e, NP205
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=793192
____________________________________________
1972 CST K5 Blazer Dark Olive
72K5CSTDarkOlive is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-11-2019, 08:23 AM   #19
C.I.Blazer
Registered User
 
Join Date: Aug 2019
Location: WA State
Posts: 186
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

Maybe I missed it in you first build thread, but what transmission was in your truck? Are you just mating to that or upgrading to a newer unit to match the LQ9? Will you have to move any of the drivetrain assembly forward or back?
C.I.Blazer is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-11-2019, 03:17 PM   #20
72K5CSTDarkOlive
Registered User
 
72K5CSTDarkOlive's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Central Coast, CA
Posts: 774
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

Quote:
Originally Posted by C.I.Blazer View Post
Maybe I missed it in you first build thread, but what transmission was in your truck? Are you just mating to that or upgrading to a newer unit to match the LQ9? Will you have to move any of the drivetrain assembly forward or back?
Originally was the th350 and then when I swapped motors for the 427 sbc I also swapped the the350 for a 4L80e.

I kept the engine in the same place and moved the Tcase back 2.5". I had to have new driveshafts made and I used the Lokar shift linkage to make the proper bends for it to fit.
Attached Images
  
__________________
My Build Thread 72 K5 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=628612

Build version 2.0: 72 K5
6.0 LQ9, 4L80e, NP205
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=793192
____________________________________________
1972 CST K5 Blazer Dark Olive
72K5CSTDarkOlive is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-12-2019, 08:53 AM   #21
CJM72
Registered User
 
Join Date: Aug 2015
Location: Raynham, MA
Posts: 222
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

Quote:
Originally Posted by 72K5CSTDarkOlive View Post
For the LS engine mount, I ended up going with Dirty Dingo. I did extensive research on this subject and after talking directly to Pacific Fabrication and Dirty Dingo I ended up with the latter.

The reason I went with the DD is that they guaranteed me that my stock height leaf springs wouldn't be an issue with the cross member hitting the top of the pumpkin on the differential. (We Shall See!) The only thing I didn't like about the DD is I am going to have to make new brake lines and re-route. The Pacific Fab has cut-outs or notches if you will, in their version and I would have gone with theirs if it didn't require at least a 2" lift.

The install was pretty easy and they provide you with detailed instructions that are easy to follow.

I had to bend my existing line to allow the cross member to fit. It's binding on the frame so a new custom line will go in it's
How much clearance do you have between the pumpkin and your DD cross member? What springs are you using? I have the same x-member but I'm using an LQ9 with a 4l65e. T- case is in the stock location. The front plate of my DD x-member is dangerously close to the vent on my pumpkin.

Of course I have original springs with an old add a leaf in them. Still, I'm talking 2" of clearance! May modify the bolt in center section of the x-member for another inch of clearance. Your truck looks great! Keep it up
CJM72 is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-12-2019, 03:30 PM   #22
Ptjsk
Registered User
 
Join Date: Jan 2018
Location: Northern CA
Posts: 588
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

I have to say you're making me feel bad with my "mild" restoration.

Looking at yours, you have restored it just as I restore my old Corvettes!

I've been trying to curtail the level I'm restoring to, yet project creep keeps taking ahold. Especially when I see a project like yours (as well as a few others on here).

Thanks for keeping up on the pictures,

Pat
Ptjsk is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-12-2019, 11:58 PM   #23
72K5CSTDarkOlive
Registered User
 
72K5CSTDarkOlive's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Central Coast, CA
Posts: 774
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

Quote:
Originally Posted by CJM72 View Post
How much clearance do you have between the pumpkin and your DD cross member? What springs are you using? I have the same x-member but I'm using an LQ9 with a 4l65e. T- case is in the stock location. The front plate of my DD x-member is dangerously close to the vent on my pumpkin.

Of course I have original springs with an old add a leaf in them. Still, I'm talking 2" of clearance! May modify the bolt in center section of the x-member for another inch of clearance. Your truck looks great! Keep it up
Thank you. The K5 is at the body shop or else I would go measure. However, until I drop in the new engine it would be hard to say for sure right now.

I had a set of custom springs made by Atlas Suspension. They were made for stock ride height. I moved my Tcase back when I installed the 4l80e and left the engine in stock location. I suppose moving the engine fwd would put it closer to the pumpkin.
__________________
My Build Thread 72 K5 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=628612

Build version 2.0: 72 K5
6.0 LQ9, 4L80e, NP205
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=793192
____________________________________________
1972 CST K5 Blazer Dark Olive
72K5CSTDarkOlive is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-13-2019, 01:31 AM   #24
72K5CSTDarkOlive
Registered User
 
72K5CSTDarkOlive's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2013
Location: Central Coast, CA
Posts: 774
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ptjsk View Post
I have to say you're making me feel bad with my "mild" restoration.

Looking at yours, you have restored it just as I restore my old Corvettes!

I've been trying to curtail the level I'm restoring to, yet project creep keeps taking ahold. Especially when I see a project like yours (as well as a few others on here).

Thanks for keeping up on the pictures,

Pat
You bet. I'm going to have a bunch more stuff to share now and over the next month. Blazer get's back from body shop next week and my LS will be ready then too. A lot of work ahead of me

What kind of vettes do you have? One of my favorites is the C2
__________________
My Build Thread 72 K5 http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=628612

Build version 2.0: 72 K5
6.0 LQ9, 4L80e, NP205
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=793192
____________________________________________
1972 CST K5 Blazer Dark Olive
72K5CSTDarkOlive is offline   Reply With Quote
Old 09-13-2019, 10:43 AM   #25
Ptjsk
Registered User
 
Join Date: Jan 2018
Location: Northern CA
Posts: 588
Re: The never ending K5 Build LS Swap

A '62, and a '63.

The '63 is just nearing completion. Then I got sidetracked a little with the Jimmy!

Pat
Attached Images
  
Ptjsk is offline   Reply With Quote
Reply

Bookmarks


Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off

Forum Jump


All times are GMT -4. The time now is 07:15 PM.


Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.11
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions Inc.
Copyright 1997-2022 67-72chevytrucks.com