1972 Medium Blue Highlander Blazer Resto

[72 paul]

Thanks for reply Pete.Did use double side 3m tape, worked good.Hoping to have top back soon,back at painters to do touchup.

[DeadheadNM]

You bet. I suspect that will work just fine. Good luck with remainder of the build.

[DeadheadNM]

Tempted to restore the original points distributor and ditch the HEI. 2B3 = 1972 (2) February (B) 3rd (3)

[IronCanine]

Do it!

[DeadheadNM]

Yep. I'm doing it. May build an HEI too. Will post back as things develop.

Here's the shop I have in mind, owner seems like a nice and extremely knowledgeable guy: https://www.advanceddistributors.com/

[PowerdbyChevy79]

Subscribed!!!
Im about to start a K5 build soon.. lots of great info on here.

[DeadheadNM]

Welcome aboard and thanks for the good words. The build continues. Recently, I replaced the HEI with the original points distributor, which I sent for a rebuild and curve. The HEI left me temporarily stranded a few times and rather than disassemble it and replace the pickup coil I decided to can it.

Engine runs and idles better than ever but I’ve yet to do a long drive. Since I used a harness designed for use with an HEI that has no resistance built in the external coil I added has internal resistance. This coil has a slightly larger diameter than an OE example but fit in the OE bracket. The new plug wires are from Lectric Limited are US made and are precut for a 72 4wd application.

[DeadheadNM]

I’ve been able to get some seat time with the rebuilt distributor. This thing has never run better. Easier starts, just purrs at idle, and there’s great throttle response. Super pleased I did the swap. Fresh oil and a new coat of wax - ready for the summer.

[Ol Blue K20]

Nice, looking good too.

[IronCanine]

Damn that girl is PHOTOGENIC.

Glad the distributor rebuild panned out so well. Following your lead per usual.

[1970cstblazer]

My 1972 Cheyenne responded the same. The MSD didn't cut the mustard. The rebuilt correct points distributor for the win!

[DeadheadNM]

Thanks for the good words guys. It's as if the Blazer was pouting about the lack of its original distributor. Sort of like that Brady Bunch episode where they took the idol from Hawaii and bad luck followed The K20 gets along just fine with the HEI or so it seems.

[1970cstblazer]

To make it clear, I am a fan of HEI systems. My mid-70's Pontiacs have had zero issues with them, especially after a recurve and maintenance to include replacing the pick up coil.

In these '67-'72 trucks, especially K series, I do not like them. The engine sits close to the firewall, and the larger diameter of the HEI distributor is not favorable. Also, the stock centrifugal/vacuum advance timing calibrations are for smog era low CR and wussy cams. Of course, these are easily addressed.

As with the points system, quality old stock parts are crucial. Most of the new parts available today are of much lower quality than OEM Delco Remy.

[DeadheadNM]

Nice! Glad you found those. It's a shame that WI mandates a state front plate. I'd like to have the "Building a Better Way..." plate mounted again.