It is fair to say that with the ready availability of high-quality reproduction parts, it is possible to perform a faithful restoration on virtually any post-war American classic. However, the big question facing many enthusiasts is whether such an undertaking is financially viable. Some people will throw caution to the wind if they harbor a deep-seated passion to own the vehicle of their dreams, while others will search instead for a turnkey alternative. This 1971 Chevrolet K5 Blazer is a sad and sorry sight, requiring total restoration to recapture its former glory. Why not take a close look to decide whether the cost and effort are justified?
Chevrolet introduced the K5 Blazer in 1969 to compete head-to-head with the Ford Bronco and International Scout. Basing the new model on the K10 Pickup not only dramatically reduced development and production costs, but it also provided greater interior space than offered by its competition. The first owner ordered this Blazer in 1971, selecting Cottonwood Green Metallic paint to cloak its exterior. They teamed this with Black on the removable top, and combined with the Rally wheels, this combination provided an excellent blend of muscle and class. The faded paint is the least of this classic’s issues because there is rust for the winning bidder to tackle. It is abundantly visible on the lower extremities, meaning that there will be much cutting and welding in this Blazer’s future. Delving below the surface reveals heavy surface corrosion on the frame and floors, with evidence of steel penetration in several locations. Therefore, the best approach would be to dismantle this K5 to the last nut and bolt to achieve a high-end result. That is a labor-intensive process but is also the only way to ensure the bodyshell is rust-free before tackling the cosmetic aspects of this restoration. The trim condition ranges from restorable to items that will respond well to polish, and the glass looks pretty good.
The first owner ordered this K5 Blazer with the range-topping 350ci V8, placing 250hp and 350 ft/lbs of torque at their disposal. They teamed the small-block with a four-speed manual transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and power assistance for the steering and brakes. Chevrolet’s 350 is renowned for its smooth power and torque delivery, making it ideal for off-road adventures where vehicles like this Blazer are often required to crawl over harsh terrain. You will probably be unsurprised to learn that this classic isn’t a driver, and, judging by the general state of the engine bay, I suspect that it hasn’t moved under its own power for many years. It is unclear whether the engine turns freely, but factoring a complete mechanical rebuild into the restoration budget would be wise.
This Blazer is unquestionably consistent, with its interior requiring as much TLC as the rest of the vehicle. However, there are no missing major components, and since the build will probably involve a complete strip-out, refreshing the painted surfaces will be straightforward. The process will leave little change from $2,000 if the new owner craves perfection, adding further to the cost of returning this Blazer to its former glory.
I don’t doubt that opinions will vary on this 1971 K5 Blazer, with some readers believing that restoration isn’t financially viable. However, the auction action suggests that plenty of people are willing to give it a red-hot go. It has attracted an impressive thirty-nine bids since the seller listed it here on eBay in Lincoln, Nebraska. This has pushed the price to $3,900, which is below the reserve. That brings us to the question of its potential value if restored to a high standard. Recent successful sales results suggest that $50,000 would be a conservative figure for a driver-grade build. However, a significantly higher value would be within reach if the buyer achieves perfection. It needs considerable work to achieve that lofty goal, but I must return to my original question of whether you feel the expense and effort are justified. It will be fascinating to gauge your response.
A fixin’ to mount a plow on it. I heard, this winter is going to be a record for snowfall, oddly enough, brought to you by Toro( that’s a joke, son) Seriously though, we’ve come a long ways in SUVs and I think some may have forgotten how these drive. They, like all the early 4x4s, were designed to work at slow speeds. In case some readers never pushed a flake, these make excellent plow trucks. You know, I look around at the offerings today for plow trucks, without spending $50grand, not much. You going to plow with a Highlander? Good luck. New Bronco? Puulease. Like mom and pops pickup, there simply can’t be many of these left. Mr. Plow, that’s his name,,,
The plow killed most of these (and the others mentioned) around here. They are so nimble compared to a long pickup. This one looks ready, just make the defroster and wipers work, maybe one taillight and go make some money pushing snow. (You won’t turn a profit, but you’ll have fun until the clutch burns up.)
Back in the day Rump, this was the dream job for certain fellas. Their girlfriend rode shotgun with the German Shepherd sitting between them. They bid on the work in September hoping for little snowfall. Got blanketed in early December and never made it up. The truck burned out. The dog ran away. And all they were left with was the German Shepherd.
As I’ve said before I have restored a few cars that should have been junked. Having all that “experience” behind me l wouldn’t get anywhere near his one. Our new ’72 Blazer came off the showroom floor with rust in the interior panel areas. Tore everything off but the main body to fix it and wasted 3 months of my life. Great rig after that.
Worth fixing? Depends on how bad you want one and how much money you have. Anything can be fixed. Pass.
These aren’t that unique or exotic enough where you’d want to restore one of these in this condition. If you need parts for another K5 of this vintage that you’re rebuilding, then this is your rig, provided the price of admission doesn’t get stupid.
Doing a restoration in this sad economy and state of affairs makes no sense. First most have to work several jobs to make ends meet. Those that don’t are already smacked with payments on the house and SUV for the wife and that new $80,000 pick up.
Not everyone shares your opinion on the economy. I guess that it is a matter of perspective. 😉
I like the old Blazers, however this one would make a great little plow truck, maybe if you could get it for $500,,,not running who knows