Have an oportunity to buy a 71 Blazer

[milehighz28]

The body is in pretty good shape, and the drive line seems in good condition. It has a 350 in it from either a Camaro or El Camino of a similar year. What should this Blazer be worth? Are there some common defects I should look out for? Any fall backs to this generation Blazer? Thanks,

Jeff

Edit: Oh yeah, what are the emissions rules for a 71 in CO?

 

[Roostr84]

I would say the only major problems are common rust areas (Rocker panels, and rocker boxes especially). I would check these areas out first and foremost. Might as well check around the fenderwells and under the tailgate lip also. On the hardtop checkout the hinges as well. Hope this helps some.

 

[swamp donkey]

There are a number of posts here on this very thing. One major thing is rust in the windsheild frame. Rocker panels and boxes can be replaced, but windsheild frames are a whole different ball of wax. Also watch for cracks in the frame. The area where the steering box mounts to the frame ALWAYS cracks. There are a couple reinforcements, and patch kits out there.. just be aware of it.

As far as what it's worth... no way to say. I couldn't unload my 69 ( and they are the most rare) for $2800 about six months ago. I see top notch rigs selling for $8k-$10k, driveable with some damage, in the $5k range.

 

[homemadesin]

In CO, all cars have to be emission tested when you sell them. If it is a classic, i.e. after 25 years old, you won't need to test again until you sell it. I just went through this with my '72 in Castle Rock (in the Denver Metro testing zone). I went for the classic plates with 5 year duration. I can't recall if you had to get the classic plates or not for the e-testing.....