It is that time of year when the thoughts of many turn to dreams of venturing off the beaten track to commune with Mother Nature. Often, the decision isn’t where to go, but how to get there. If that question weighs on your mind and you don’t wish to spend a fortune, this 1985 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Silverado could be a great alternative. It isn’t perfect, but with a healthy V8 and a dual-range transfer case, it could transport its occupants across some pretty harsh terrain. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Danny for spotting the Blazer listed here on eBay in Puyallup, Washington. Bidding sits at $5,700 in a No Reserve auction. However, the seller indicates that interested parties could bypass the auction process with an offer of $11,600.
The seller is candid about the Blazer’s physical condition, but most importantly, the listing text and images confirm that it is rock-solid. There are areas of dry surface corrosion on the underside, but no evidence of penetrating rust. The Code 19 Midnight Black paint generally shines acceptably, though the clearcoat is deteriorating with age, which may prompt the winning bidder to consider a cosmetic refresh. The process would involve addressing a few minor dings and dents, with the one on the driver’s side rear quarter panel near the door the most severe. One trim piece is AWOL, but the rest looks to be in good condition. The tinted glass is clear, and the alloy wheels haven’t been damaged in off-road adventures.
Why would this Blazer be a great off-roader? Its 5.0-liter V8 delivers 160hp and 235 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a four-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case. Power steering should make life easy in tight or confined areas, with power brakes further reducing the driver’s workload. It is nothing but good news for potential buyers seeking a turnkey classic. The V8 springs to life at a twist of the key, running smoothly and producing plenty of power. The transmission shifts perfectly, and the transfer case works faultlessly. The vehicle drives extremely well, with no identified mechanical issues or shortcomings.
Ordering a 1985 Blazer in Midnight Black typically offered buyers three interior trim color choices. This Chevy’s first owner selected Burgundy cloth, providing a luxurious feel befitting the Silverado badge. It also features air conditioning, power locks, cruise control, intermittent wipers, and an AM/FM radio/cassette player. The seller states that the A/C doesn’t blow cold, an issue the buyer would need to investigate. The dashpad is cracked beneath an aftermarket cover, and the driver’s seat is worn and torn. However, the remaining upholstered surfaces look pretty respectable. The buyer could invest their cash into new seatcovers and a replacement pad, or they could install a set of slipcovers to hide the seat issue, and leave the dash cover in place. The decision would hinge on their desire for perfection. Otherwise, this interior’s most pressing need is a carpet deep clean.
This 1985 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Silverado isn’t perfect, but that could be its greatest attribute. Performing a cosmetic refresh to improve its appearance would be relatively easy and, if done in a home workshop, wouldn’t cost a fortune. However, it could venture into the wilderness in its current form, with the owner safe in the knowledge that the occasional scratch or bump won’t mar perfection. You could walk into a dealership and drive away in a new Blazer, receiving the creature comforts buyers expect from new vehicles. However, that option would lighten the buyer’s wallet by at least $38,000. Depreciation becomes a factor, and the fear of inflicting cosmetic damage will always sit in the owner’s mind. This Blazer will cost considerably less while offering a more relaxed ownership experience. That is why it deserves a close look.
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