Project "Low Down Dirty Rat" Build thread.

[ABLAZN]

Welcome to my build thread for my '72 Blazer. After much thought and research, I am converting from a lifted 4X4 to a lowered 2WD. So, I will update this tread as I proceed through the project. I have been asked to keep a running total of the parts as I go from those who are considering doing this conversion themselves. Of course I will post as many pictures as needed or asked for. I hope to get some before pictures up in the next few days.

Now for a explanation for my project name. I was joking with my wife that I was going to call it project Rat Droppings because I was going to be lowering the truck, plus I was going to have a big block rat motor in it. She looked at me in disgust and said, " why don't you just call it Low Down Dirty Rat?" It actually made sense, because the motor was used in a mud truck at one time, and was in fact quite dirty. So there you have it, a beginning to my build tread

[OARNGESI]

Sounds like a nice project the 2wd k5s are always nice

[Yukon Jack]

Looking forward to following your thread.

[TonyJohnson]

Should be interesting.

[1sik52]

We demand Pics!

[ABLAZN]

OK, I just got my first parts for the conversion. So I thought I would update this. I managed to get a complete C-20 disc front end for $50 on Craigslist. I had to travel about an hour, but well worth the savings verses the $300 or more that I found everywhere else. The plan is to use Early Classic Enterprises conversion drop spindles to use 1/2 ton rotors. I'm a little torn at this point as to which route to go for the lug count. I like the idea of 5 lug, since it is more factory, but I have a brand new set of wheels that I bought and are paid for. I did a little photo editing to get an idea of what it would look like with the present wheels and lowered. Let me know what you think.

Here is the Blazer in its present form.


Here is a quick editing good just to get an idea of what it might look like.


..and the C-20 front end that is going under it (Picture taken at where I bought it from)

[Big J]

Are you doing just the 2wd conversion or are there plans of body mods, paint, or other mayhem too? I like those wheels.

[lks dcvn]

Should be fun to follow - I am not sure if I have the time to do one of these conversion on my own - but it will be fun to watch nonetheless and see the progress -

[ABLAZN]

Originally Posted by Big J

Are you doing just the 2wd conversion or are there plans of body mods, paint, or other mayhem too? I like those wheels.

There are no real body mods planned, other then I may built a hard cover for the back to get it the two seater look. The wife really wants it to be a darker metallic red, so that is the plan. (See rendering below) As for mayhem, I think the 454 will be a good start in that direction. I plan on starting out with the carb that is on it, but would like to go to an Accel TPI unit sometime in the future. I also am considering a OD tranny of some sort. The interior will have the newer seats with the integrated seat belt, both front and rear. There may be other things that I have forgotten, but that should keep my busy for awhile.