Some folks don't mind spending bags of cash at high-dollar shops to build the four-wheel machine of their dreams. But for the average off-road enthusiast it's the hands-on challenge of building and fabricating parts for a rig, the strict appreciation of a budget, and the pride of doing the work himself that keeps him motivated. After all, not everyone has 50 to 80 grand to pump into a high-tech 4x4-so we make due with the vehicles and parts we have.
For Tim Shigo, raising a close-knit family while building his ultimate 4x4 in the backyard is a slice of heaven. Tim purchased this '72 Chevy Blazer for just over $2,000 and started building. The Blazer may not be your idea of pretty, but it's functional and dependable and has safely transported the Shigo family over hundreds of miles of trail adventures year after year.
Some of the components used...
Some of the components used in the build weren't cheap, but they were necessary. The reworked Chevy small-block received Edelbrock RPM heads and an Edlebrock Pro-Flo fuel injection system. A custom aluminum radiator helps keep the 350ci engine cool, and a Premier power welder is tucked neatly in the ammo can and helps with trail repairs.
Tech Specs
1972 Chevy Blazer
Drivetrain
Engine: Chevy 350ci small-block
Transmission: 700R4
Transfer case: Atlas II, 5.44:1
Front Axle: Dana 44, Yukon chromoly shafts, 5.38 gears
Rear Axle: 14-bolt, Yukon chromoly shafts, 5.38 gears
Suspension
Front: Leaf springs, Bilstein 7100 shocks, King air bumpstops
Rear: Custom 3/4 elliptical leaf pack, King air bumpstops
Tires & Wheels: 38.5x11.00-16 TSL Boggers on 16x9.5 steel wheels
Other Stuff: High Angle Driveline driveshafts, Optima battery, Pro Comp lights,Warn hubs, Mile Marker winch, High Angle transfer case brake, custom high-steer arms, custom rattle-can paint
The eight-lug Dana 44 front...
The eight-lug Dana 44 front axle was fitted with 5.38 gears, Yukon chrome-moly axleshafts and Super Joints, and an Ox locker for traction. Tim fabricated and installed the front and rear bumpers and the rocker guards and boatsided the Blazer by removing nine 9 inches of rocker panel.
The rear suspension revolves...
The rear suspension revolves around Tim's own 3/4 elliptical leaf-spring design. He picked up the idea from reading the 4x4 rags and watching how rigs performed at off-road events. Doing the work himself and building the 3/4 elliptical suspension from used parts, Tim estimates he saved over $800.
Some snooty, convertible-pants-wearing,...
Some snooty, convertible-pants-wearing, luxury SUV owners may not appreciate this old Blazer, but we certainly do. It's functional, it's tough, and it works. Tim cut the fabricated door inserts himself, welded in a full cage for safety, and installed Auto Meter gauges to keep tabs on the vital functions of the engine.