What should I buy for $200

[Notime2d8]

Hey I'm on a budget these days and have to buy a part a check. Trying to see which upgrade to get as none of these parts are broken? My options are:

454 Radiator - I have whatever the smallest one is.

Bolt in 12 bolt with matching gears from another K5 - I currently have a 10 bolt

1989 NP241 w/speedo cable - Is this worth $200? - I currently have a 79 NP208

Digital gauges - I have the standard 85 gauges with the clock and no RPM.

91 Style Front clip. - I currently have the quad lights.

 

[nvrenuf]

I'd go with the radiator or rear axle first. You might consider hunting for a good deal on a SF 14 bolt before investing in a 12 bolt (assuming your 10 bolt works now).

Imo, the 241 is not worth the effort and cost if you already have a 208. That said, there were no 208's in 79 so double check what you have.

Do the front clip and gauges last, function over form.

 

[Notime2d8]

Ah, yes, you are correct. I need to thank the PO. I have an 86 Blazer with a 1979 350, TH350, and NP208. I do have a NP208 though. I also don't have the tools/knowledge to correctly do a 14 bolt conversion -(the welding, and setting angles). But you seem close enough to help or sell me one...

 

[nvrenuf]

Oh cool, I didn't realize you were close by.

Trust me you don't want me welding anything. LOL!

 

[sweetk30]

fyi 10-12 bolt no major strength upgrade .

just get a good 3 core a/c option radiator for the mid 80's your body is . this is a taller than short base option . might need new/used top plates to clamp it to the core support.

the 454/diesel rad options can require the kind of rare 4 core upper rad hold down brackets .

run the 208 till it blows . . . then swap in a 241 .

unless you want the COOL look of 89-91 the headlights on them don't put as much light on the road as the bigger 4 headlight of 81-87 .

 

[my kids took the truck]

just get a good 3 core a/c option radiator for the mid 80's your body is . this is a taller than short base option . might need new/used top plates to clamp it to the core support.

Last year I had my 2-core recored as a 3-core. They reuse the side tanks. This maintains your copper radiator. They have three levels of fin count, OEM density, medium density, and high density. The higher density gets you more surface area for heat transfer. I went with the OEM density but should have gone with a denser core. If you find a used 454 radiator, you will probably need to have it recored, at the minimum rodded out, and will probably end up with an aftermarket aluminum oem replacement.

 

[Big Ray]

14 boltsf is a bolt in upgrade....

 

[sweetk30]

14 boltsf is a bolt in upgrade....

only if 8 lug from 3/4 ton truck of our body style .

if 6 lug wanted then its spring perches and shock tabs. = welder / grinder / work .

 

[Big Ray]

Is he dedicated to a 6 lug?

 

[Notime2d8]

Is he dedicated to a 6 lug?

I am....Just bought rims and tires. But most say I'll be ok with a 10 bolt and 35's. I was wanting to use it to tow as well.

 

[CrpMag122]

As others have said, not much to really gain in swapping a 12 bolt in place of a 10 bolt.