Newbie questions 1971 blazer

[Grailhunter]

Here’s what I got guys. Bought a 71 2wd Blazer from a gentleman several years ago. It has a straight 6 “I believe a 250” and a 3 speed on the floor. He bought it for fishing and if the roads were too bad he wasn’t going. I also have the fiberglass pickup cab made in Minnesota about the same time. I’m sure it’s pretty rare, but I’ve considered an engine swap or should I just leave it alone. My son wants to turn it into a low rider hot rod, but I kinda like it the way it is. Any advice? I only paid $500 for it years ago cause the guys wife wanted it out of her parking place. Lol

 

[nvrenuf]

Sounds like a good opportunity for a father / son project.

 

[TJ1978]

Restore and keep it factory everything or, Being a 2wd and slight drip would look good but shy away from the ridiculous 20' wheels..

 

[Grailhunter]

Restore and keep it factory everything.

They only come stock once. I’m thinking we have a 56 f100 that I would rather see turned into a hot rod. This poor little blazer isn’t perfect by any means. A few dents and dings, not much for rust, but I was thinking upgrading brakes and suspension more than anything else.

 

[TJ1978]

They only come stock once. I’m thinking we have a 56 f100 that I would rather see turned into a hot rod. This poor little blazer isn’t perfect by any means. A few dents and dings, not much for rust, but I was thinking upgrading brakes and suspension more than anything else.

Of course I mean stock in the sense that it's not some lowrider abomination with ridiculous wheels and tires and all the other goofyness that's trendy presently.

Upgrade breaks, etc maybe even drop a a 350, I'm sure other will have options for this. But I'd keep as original as functionality possible.

 

[Wes Harden]

Well I fursure wouldn't "drip" it. By all means brake upgrade, 4 wheel drums suck with a capital S. Being 2wd a 71 72 truck can donate the front disc, master cyl and prop valve.
I keep the 6 cyl unless it has bad block or head then an engine swap would make sense.

clear coat the patina drive it

 

[TJ1978]

Stock.... and upgrade

 

[Grailhunter]

I appreciate the advice. It sounds like most of you are thinking along the same lines. Nothing wrong with the original 6 cyl, just figured I’d pickle it and stick in a small block with a 4 or 5 speed just so it stays up with traffic. No c notch, no hydraulics, and no ridiculous rims. Thanks again for your replies.