Basic matience, like water pump, oil pump, spark plugs, filters and battery all have been replaced.
The alternator has gone a few times, once because of a faulty battery.
Transmission has had a small leak for about a year and just recently got worse.
It threw a connecting rod through the oil pan about 2 weeks ago. I will fix it eventually.
Most gaskets have been replaced as well.
Fun to drive on or off the road.
Lots of power for four wheeling or leaving people from the light.
Easy to see cars coming in traffic over other cars.
With a little bit of exhaust work it can sound really mean.
The roof comes off for those hot sunny days.
Blazers are lumbering beasts with slow, unresponsive steering (at least my 72 is he he) but they are an absolute blast to drive with the top off during the summer and great to go four wheeling in. Makes it even better when you've got an engine in it that makes it go from 0-60 in about 5.5 seconds. What a blast... I'll never trade mine for any other 4x4.
I own a '72 Blazer with a 6" lift and 35" tires. One of the reasons I chose this vehicle is the stock Dana 44 and Corporate 12 bolt axles are plenty strong to handle this modification. In addition, the factory 4 speed (sm 465) is geared plenty low to handle the taller tires. There is more than enough room in the wheel wells; tire rub simply is not a factor. A 6" lift is actually more than you need. If I had had prior knowledge of this I would have used a 4" lift to keep the center of gravity a little lower. The truck can make you nervous if you're on a side slope.
On the street: It's far from ideal, but just plain fun to drive. If you enjoy lots of amenities this is the wrong vehicle for you. If you like a utilitarian, simple interior that requires little or no maintenance it's perfect. My Blazer's interior consists of seats, gauges, heater controls, a CD player, and a magnetic cup holder between the original bucket seats. The magnet works because there is no carpet, virtually no sound deadening at all. Nothing but sheet metal and a coat of paint between me and the drive train.
A 4800 pound vehicle with a 32 year old 350 is not economical to drive. Do not kid yourself. I get about 11mpg. All I'm saying is make sure you know what you're getting into. Also, it runs about 2200rpm at 65mph, so don't expect to do a lot of road trips if you're looking at Blazer with a similar set up. You'll probably get lower rpm's with the 3 speed auto.
This vehicle is fun for short trips around town, and it's fantastic on the trail. It'll handle the highway well enough to get you where you're going. Basically, I love it, but it's not for everyone.
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