Need advice on purchase

[S28250]

Hey, I'm new to this board and am interested in purchasing a K5 .I'm trying to obtain info regarding the different model years. I like the full convertible K'5s but did not know if they had power steering and brakes. I need something that will tow a 18ft boat so power brakes is a must. I assume the older ones have a more rugged drivetrain but it is pretty flat where I live , mostly just mudding. There are 2 I have found in my area a 1989 auto with a 454 and a 1976 4 speed 350. I'm going to look at both this weekend. Any purchase advice would be appreciated as to what are the most desireable years, which ones if any to stay away from, etc....I know this has probably been answered before but I cannot locate a search function on here.
Thanks

 

[Dabba]

i belive the 76 is full convertable, could be wrong though. The 89 definetly isnt.

 

[troutbum_mt]

i belive the 76 is full convertable, could be wrong though. The 89 definetly isnt.

I think 75 was the last year of the full convertable. Personally I would go with the 89. I like those body styles better than the older ones (personal opinion so your mileage may vary), body parts are easier to find, probably has more comforts than the 76 (power windows, locks, etc) and the interior will probably be in better shape. You can always buy an old beater 75 or earlier and make either the 76 or 89 fully convertable too.

I am new to Blazers as well and just bought a beat up, rusted out hulk of a 75. After getting lots of feedback from people here, I decided to get a "donor" for parts etc. Actually found one in better shape for the same price as the 75 and 3 years younger. I have a ton of work ahead of me and part of me wishes I would have held out longer and just bought a cleaner starter vehicle like you still can. I do like the fact that the earlier models are more idiot proof to work on for people like me

All in all I guess it all depends on just how much work you are prepared to do. The decision is yours but be wary of saddling yourself with too much work like I did. Either way, the end result is a killer vehicle and you will make out no matter what.

Hope this helps and doesn't muddy the waters. I feel your pain

Warren

 

[onetonbb74]

id stick with the 89 for the fuel injection. IMO a 76 is sorta a waste because its the first year of half tops and is old and carbed and probably rusty, if going that old, get a 75 for the full removable top. I do however like the 4 speed stick so the choice is yours.

 

[skyyk5]

73-75 for second gen body full convertable

the 454 in the '89 is not stock. check to see if it's tbi, or carb. And what tranny is behind it. If it dosen't have a th400, you'll be replacing it.

the 350, 465 (four speed) is a great combo. It has the granny low first gear, you drive it as a 3 speed. But if the truck is junk, don't bother with it.

look at were the floor steps from the front to the back, if it's rotted bad you have work ahead of you. Also look by the tailgate for rot.

I'll sell you my '89 350 tbi, 4 speed full convertable for a good price.