Heading off-road for many outdoor enthusiasts is often just as much about wilderness exploration and quality family time as it is obstacle conquering and limit defying. While we all have our own preferred level of trail difficulty, almost every wheeler wants a reliable off-road vehicle. For Scott Milne of Los Angeles, that picture of reliability started with an '86 Chevy Blazer CUCV (commercial utility cargo vehicle). Originally spotting the ex-military K-5 at a used car dealership, Scott snatched it up for a song and set out on his journey of creating a vehicle capable of handling his long-distance hunting and wheeling expeditions. Beyond his immediate needs of seating for four and substantial cargo capacity, Scott wanted a rig that had a bit of an Armageddon-ready appearance and more flair than your run-of-the-mill Jeep Wrangler. Occupant shade and protection come by way of a custom soft top and rollcage made of 1 3/4x0.120-wall DOM tubing. Keeping his gear safe is a lockable storage box that absorbs much of the rear cargo area.Occupant shade and protection come by way of a custom soft top and rollcage made of 1 3/4x To achieve this bombproof Chevy vision, Scott enlisted the help of SMP-Fabworks in Sylmar, California. Though many wheelers may have gone straight for a tall lift and big tires, that's simply not what Scott needed. Instead of a monster stance, the classic CUCV received a heavy-duty bumper set along with a custom rollcage and 1-ton axles. While Scott admits the Blazer is still a work in progress, for now it works great for all of his on- and off-road needs. Tech Specs 1986 Chevy Blazer CUCV Drivetrain Engine: 6.2L with Banks Power turbo kit Transmission: TH400 Transfer case: NP208 Front Axle: Dana 60, E-locker, 3.73 gears Rear Axle: 14-bolt, Detroit Locker, 3.73 gears Suspension Springs & Such: Custom Atlas springs, Fox shocks Tires & Wheels: 285/75/16 BGF A-Ts on 16-inch Pro Comp wheels Steering: Stock Other Stuff: Custom SMP-Fabworks bumpers, cage, and sliders; front and rear Warn winches; fiberglass dash; Corbeau seats; Vision X lights Since the 6.2L GM diesel isn't much of a powerhouse, Scott added a little more grunt by way of a Banks Power turbo kit. While the power is certainly better than stock, Scott is eyeing a more potent engine option as we speak.Since the 6.2L GM diesel isn't much of a powerhouse, Scott added a little more grunt by wa To gain more strength and reliability, Scott swapped in a Dana 60 front and 14-bolt rear from a CUCV pickup. Splitting the power between the heavy-duty axles is an NP208 that's supported by a custom SMP-Fabworks crossmember.To gain more strength and reliability, Scott swapped in a Dana 60 front and 14-bolt rear f Though you can still hose out the Chevy's interior, it's not without a few modern upgrades. Sitting in place of the dated factory dash is a custom fiberglass unit, while the worn OE bun supporters were tossed in favor of a set of reclining Corbeau seats.Though you can still hose out the Chevy's interior, it's not without a few modern upgrades By Ali Mansour Enjoyed this Post? Subscribe to our RSS Feed, or use your favorite social media to recommend us to friends and colleagues!
