New to blazers, considering buying one

[tom11011]

Hi Group,

I'm new to Chevy Blazers in general. Also, I haven't owned or worked on a 70's American made auto since my high school days back in the 80s.

I've been considering buying an early model blazer, maybe a 72, something I can wrench on. Looking for a new hobby. This would not be a daily driver.

What can I expect in the way of non-engine parts availability if I were to take it down to the frame? How difficult would it be to convert an old blazer to power front disc brakes? Any issues with converting to HEI? Any issues with todays fuel? I don't believe emissions are an issue in the state of Florida on a vehicle this old, that being the case, if I elect to replace an original engine, what would be the best option?

Lots of questions I know, but looking forward to getting back into 70s model autos.

Thanks.
Tom

 

[wage92]

Welcome to the forum man! Spend some time searching around here and i think youll find all your answers quite readily. I can tell you from experience that there is what i think an ambundance of parts for these trucks, since chevys were so universal back then. By power front brakes do you mean booster? Mine came with that and its a 78. Cant say anything about hei because i havent got to my engine yet, but i imagine its simple. Not many problems with fuel either, mine ran on 87 octane just great, and after its built it will run on 93 even better And lastly for an engine swap it depends what you are looking to get out of the truck, do you want something simple that will be straightfoward and plug and play or do you want to swap in a newer engine? Also what will you use the k5 for? towing, offroading, mall crawler, weekend toy? That will play into the engine choice as well. But as i said search around here and check out the build thread section you will learn a lot.