No Reserve K5: 1973 Chevrolet Blazer

Enthusiasts seeking an off-roader will likely find this 1973 Chevrolet K5 Blazer an ideal candidate. It presents extremely well, with no rust or other nasty surprises. The first owner teamed the range-topping 350ci V8 with a four-speed manual transmission and dual-range transfer case, allowing the Blazer to plunge deep into the wilderness. However, the seller’s decision to offer the vehicle with No Reserve could be the icing on the cake. You will find the Blazer listed here on eBay in Hayden, Idaho. Intense bidding has pushed the price to $15,400, and the indications are that it could climb even higher.

Launched for the 1973 model year, Chevrolet’s Second Generation K5 Blazer remained on sale until the end of 1991. The company performed ongoing updates during what was a relatively long production run, before an entirely new Blazer emerged in 1992. This first-year example presents well, but it is worth noting that it isn’t a genuine survivor. The seller states that it was repainted relatively recently, but the paintwork is more driver-grade than show quality. They describe the color as Chevrolet Medium Blue, although that year’s Sales Brochure suggests it is a shade called Skyline Blue. Whatever the truth, it still presents nicely. The paint holds a healthy shine, and there are no significant paint or panel cosmetic shortcomings. The woodgrain looks virtually flawless, but the seller raises an intriguing possibility. Since it is vinyl, removal would be relatively straightforward without compromising the paint beneath. Therefore, if faux woodgrain isn’t your bag, eliminating it would be a piece of cake. The underside shots confirm the Blazer’s rust-free status, with only a few areas of dry surface corrosion. The trim and glass are in good condition, and the 15″ Rally wheels wear new Mastercraft tires.

One area of vehicles like this Balzer that are prone to deterioration is the interior. Mud and other “icky” substances can damage or destroy carpet and upholstery, while moisture damage is also possible. This Blazer’s interior looks remarkable, but the seller has helped its cause. They claim that most of the Blue vinyl is original, but they recently added new Black carpet and door sill plates. It is hard to find much deserving criticism unless we become ultra-harsh. The back of the back seat, facing into the cargo area, shows its age with scrapes, marks, and at least one tear. Otherwise, the presentation is comfortably acceptable for an older SUV. Recent additions include an upgraded stereo and a sturdy roll bar.

This Blazer’s mechanical specifications should make off-road adventures fairly effortless. The first owner teamed the range-topping 350ci V8 with a four-speed manual transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and power front disc brakes. The small-block wasn’t the most powerful on the planet, delivering a factory-quoted 155hp and 255 ft/lbs of torque. This motor wears a shiny new Edelbrock carburetor, so maybe the buyer might have a few additional ponies at their disposal. The seller recently installed new Rancho shocks on all corners, helping to control the lumps and bumps over harsh terrain. They state that the Blazer runs and drives well, making it a turnkey proposition for its new owner.

SUVs like this 1973 Chevrolet K5 Blazer can look pretty tired with age. It is not necessarily due to abuse or neglect, but because venturing into the wilds can exact a high toll on paint, panels, and trim. This gem presents extremely well, with no rust or other problems that could spoil the ownership experience. It isn’t pristine, but the buyer won’t feel embarrassed if they are seen in public behind the wheel. What is undeniable is the interest it has generated since hitting the market. Twenty-five bids have pushed the price to its current level, with seventy-three people adding the Blazer to their Watch List. The intense action suggests there could be a way to go before the hammer falls. That begs the question of what you might pay to drive this Blazer home. So, it’s over to you for comments.