What to look for...

[mrcyrus16]

Hey all, I'm looking to pick up an a mid 80's to 1991 K5 but have no idea what combos of engine/trans/T-case/axles to avoid and which one's to embrace (not literally of course). I'm looking for your experience to hopefully help me avoid buying someone else's abortion. This would be a daily driver so no extreme parts are needed. It will probably have a simple 3"-4" lift running 33" BFG AT's, towing a small camping trailer (1200-1500# max) and maybe hit up the occasional rock trail/garden. Just looking for a little advise from the pro's.

Thanks!
Jim

 

[496truck]

87-91 are fuel injected gas or diesel. They will all have 8.5" ten bolt axles. Best gear ratios to look for would be 3.73s or 4.10s. You could always regear the axles later if you find a nice one but it only has 3.08s or 3.42s so don't let that stop you. All have the same trans options either 700R4 auto or whatever manual trans (rare but does exist) and the t-case will be NP208 or NP241.

In this year range they are pretty much "cookie cutter" trucks meaning they are basically all the same with minor changes here and there. Find one you like that is in good condition bodywise and everything else is repairable fairly simple and cheap for the DIYer.

 

[Thunder]

Of the years you listed. IMO 89-91 are the best for the following reasons.
30 spline axles which are a little stronger than the eariler 27 spline.
241 transfer case. better stronger case than the eariler 208. lower 4 low range too.
By 1989 the 700r4 trans had all the upgrades to make it stronger and last longer.
I like the 89-91 grilles the best too.
BTW..... I have a very nice, well built, 89 K5 listed in the "Complete Vehicles For Sale forum". I dont live that far from AZ

 

[nvrenuf]

496truck and Thunder are right on with their suggestions, the last few years imo are the best.

There is one bad thing to watch for, all of them from 73 thru 91 are prone to frame cracking @ the steering box. Fyi, a cracked frame isn't the kiss of death, ORD offers a repair kit to fix it. Even if you buy a truck with a perfect frame be sure to install a steering brace (like those from ORD) as preventative maintenance.

Also, auto locking hubs are common on the mid 80's or newer and they are not reliable but manual locking hubs (Warn, etc) are a direct swap.

 

[mrcyrus16]

Of the years you listed. IMO 89-91 are the best for the following reasons.
30 spline axles which are a little stronger than the eariler 27 spline.
241 transfer case. better stronger case than the eariler 208. lower 4 low range too.
By 1989 the 700r4 trans had all the upgrades to make it stronger and last longer.
I like the 89-91 grilles the best too.
BTW..... I have a very nice, well built, 89 K5 listed in the "Complete Vehicles For Sale forum". I dont live that far from AZ

Hmmmm sounds interesting....cant open the pics though...can you send to my email [email protected]


thanks
Jim