project vehicle: swb truck vs. Blazer

[evan]

I've been keeping my eyes open lately for a swb 73-87 that would be my project truck while I just keep my '78 as a daily driver, and while I was looking I found a '88 full size Blazer. I have never really looked into the details of building a blazer, but I hadn't really decided not to either. I just always assumed my project would be a SWB truck.

What are the main differences and potential problems that I could run into with a blazer rather than with a truck? What are your opinions on choosing between the two vehicles for a project?

[hotrodhomi]

I would get an older blazer. '75 on back had the full removable top. I had a '74 I loved it.

[79BIG10]

I would get the Blazer. Get the best of both worlds. I also had a 74 K-5 Blazer with the full top. It was great but with a bad gasket it was cold in the winters.

The basic problems are the same with rust etc. on the front half but then you add the full body rear half for rust with you in Canada. You have a different gas tank and being a 88 you have FI instead of carb. I want another blazer for a future family vehicle.

[Jonboy]

the biggest problem you will run into is that you will become addicted to them, and start looking at every Blazer you see. It will start with the 4WD, then you will have to get a 2WD to go with it, and pretty soon you will have a bunch of them. That's been my experience, your mileage may vary.

On the brighter side, Rust proofing got a lot better as the years went by. The 88 you are looking at should be relatively rust free, compared to anything before 80. It will have TBI, and the nicer interior as well. I would drive it, and see what you think. They are addictive, though.