Early K5 Blazers have become one of the most sought-after vintage SUVs in the hobby, and projects still surface that offer a starting point for a serious build. This 1972 Chevrolet K5 Blazer, currently listed on eBay, is exactly that type of opportunity. It’s described as a running and driving project with a solid frame and upgraded running gear, though the body will require extensive work.
Power comes from a 350 small-block Chevrolet V8 paired with a manual 4-speed transmission. The drivetrain also includes an NP205 transfer case, a combination well known for durability in classic four-wheel-drive trucks. One of the more notable changes from factory configuration is the axle setup. The original half-ton axles have been replaced with period-correct three-quarter-ton components. Up front is an open-knuckle Dana 44 with large hubs and disc brakes, while the rear axle has been upgraded to an Eaton unit. These heavier-duty axles are often sought after by enthusiasts building capable trail rigs or durable restorations.
The seller notes the truck has been parked since 1999. It currently runs and drives, but the listing clearly states that it does not have working brakes. The tires have also been sitting for more than two decades and will need replacement before any serious road use.
Where this Blazer presents the biggest challenge is the body. The seller describes extensive rust throughout the vehicle, stating that nearly every body panel has been affected. Areas mentioned include the tub, firewall, window frame, door jambs, quarter panels, rockers, floors, hood, tailgate, and fenders. The seller notes that the body appears to have had earlier rust repairs many years ago that have since deteriorated again.
Despite that condition, several key elements remain appealing for a potential build. The frame and running gear are described as very nice, and the removable top is said to be in overall good shape, though the rear hatch area will need repair.
The Blazer is being sold with matching title, VIN, and glovebox SPID documentation. With a solid foundation underneath and the paperwork in order, the listing positions this truck as a platform for someone planning a full rebuild or body replacement.
For classic 4×4 fans, the real question becomes: would you rebuild this K5 from the ground up or use it as the base for a serious off-road project?
This would make a good plow truck.
Derusted our ’72 before the rust started. Having saved many interesting cars over the years my approach to this is find a rust free body and forget any ideas of fixing this one. It’s easy to get apart and you have the fiberglass top to just paint.
You know, this is great, it shows what the “other half” might rely on. These were often seen outside the local beer dispensary, usually idling, ( been roll starting it for years) dripping something, and what the backwoods folks used to get such items of necessity. Not in a bad way, I have friends in N.Wis. that would use something like this. Make no mistake, this truck has a lot of,,,um, character, with daily bumps and bruises, like 40 years worth, and appearance was not an issue.
The doors don’t close, frame shot, nothing works, I’m sure, and if you are one of the two people that bid this bucket of rust up to $5600 bucks, well, I can’t finish that politely. It’s pretty cashed, even by N.Wis. standards.
I have four parts rigs better than this one!
Oh, and no gas tank and rear springs are rusted and not in their proper hangers, rusted too?
No thanks, not worth much at all
where is the bog this came out of?
40 years of cat scratches and whiskey dents right there! Probably each one has a story to tell, just saying
Every truck is worth a total restoration to someone. All I can say is take it down to the frame. Pull it right down to nothing and build it back. You’re bound to be well acquained with the good people at LMC just to mention one supplier. Some might regard this as a fugitive from the crusher but you might be surprised how much is actually left.
Ah, we finally get a glimpse of Geos sprawling garage with dozens of classics,,,(cough), maybe next time around, if any, hey pal?
Somebody’s trying to be a comedian here. I can only DREAM of a massive collection and a suitable place to keep it.
People have aspirations of owning a collection of vehicles that rival that of Jay Leno. I work for a guy who has 60+ trucks in his collection. He has a couple of part-time employees who look after the trucks, keeping the batteries charged and exercising them.
Vehicles don’t keep well, even in climate-controlled environments. Gas still gets skunky and varnished up; batteries go dead; they just need some constant TLC.
The bid is at 5600.00 Take the money and run.
They did.
Steve R