Chevy Blazer Spotter's Guide - SUV Bio - Four Wheeler Network
The Chevy K5 Blazer was introduced with the ’69 model year and was based largely on the C/K pickup chassis of the day. The last year of production for the United States was marked by the ’94 model, although export models continued for about seven more years. The Blazer was a staple fullsize SUV, initially built with capable straight axles, V-8 engine options, and room to take an entire family into the backcountry camping or exploring. 1st Generation (1969 to 1972). The earliest Blazers built from 1969 to 1972 (the similar GMC Jimmy debuted in 1970) offered GM buyers a short-wheelbase fullsize SUV on a ladder frame similar to the trucks of the day. For the first year, only 4WD models were available, but afterward, both 2WD (coil-sprung IFS) and 4WD models were offered. At the time of its introduction, the Blazer was advertised as having short-wheelbase prowess with wide-track stability, presumably in contrast to its Ford Bronco and International Harvester Scout competitors of the time. Power steering was via a recirculating ball Saginaw steering box mounted to the driver-side framrail with a push-pull-style drag link connecting the pitman arm to the steering knuckle on the front axle. These included the 250ci I-6, 292ci I-6, 307ci V-8, and 350ci V-8. The automatic transmission choice was the TH350. Manual transmission choices were the column-shifted three-speed (usually. Source: www.fourwheeler.com
