The 1971 Chevrolet K5 Blazer remains a sought-after icon for those who appreciate the intersection of rugged utility and classic Americana. This specific CST 4×4 example underwent an extensive body-off refurbishment starting in 2016 to elevate its performance and aesthetic appeal. Finished in its era-appropriate Medium Olive, the truck combines a vintage silhouette with modern suspension components. It represents the pinnacle of early sport utility design before the segment transitioned into more commuter-focused vehicles. Every detail, from the replaced glass to the woodgrain trim, suggests a build focused on quality and longevity. This Blazer serves as a functional piece of history that is equally at home on a trail or at a coastal cruise.
Chassis Refinement and Suspension Upgrades
The foundation of this 1971 Chevrolet K5 Blazer was sanded to bare metal during the restoration process to ensure a perfect finish. To improve its off-road stance, the builders installed a 4-inch lift kit paired with Deaver long-travel leaf springs. High-performance Fox shocks provide modern damping characteristics that the original factory equipment simply could not offer. Crossover power steering with a RedHead gearbox significantly improves steering precision and feedback for the driver. Dual stabilizers and Kevlar-reinforced bushings further enhance the stability of the lifted chassis. It sits on 15-inch Rally wheels wrapped in 33-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires for a classic yet aggressive look.
Luxury CST Interior and Modern Comforts
Inside the cabin, the Olive theme continues with replacement upholstery and carpeting that mimics the original factory luxury trim. The CST package provides a more refined environment, featuring a floor console and premium woodgrain accents throughout the dash. Modern updates include a high-performance air conditioning system to keep the cabin comfortable in any climate. For audio, a RetroSound Bluetooth stereo is paired with a concealed subwoofer hidden beneath the rear bench seat. A Hickey roll bar adds a layer of safety while maintaining the adventurous spirit of the open-top design. These improvements ensure the interior feels sophisticated without losing its utilitarian roots.
Drivetrain Overhaul and Mechanical Reliability
Engineers focused heavily on the mechanical health of this 1971 Chevrolet K5 Blazer during its multi-year refurbishment project. The 350ci V8 was completely overhauled and features “ram’s horn” exhaust manifolds mated to a custom stainless-steel dual exhaust. A three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 automatic transmission handles the shifting duties with refurbished internals for smoother operation. Power is distributed through a dual-range transfer case and Fast Shafts driveshafts to ensure durability under load. Recent maintenance in early 2026 included a carburetor repair and a fresh oil change to keep the engine running at peak efficiency. This drivetrain setup remains one of the most reliable and easy-to-service configurations in the classic truck world.
Power, Engine Specs, and Off-Road Performance
The 350ci V8 under the hood was factory rated at 170 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, providing ample low-end grunt for 4×4 maneuvers. Recent cylinder compression testing confirms the engine maintains excellent health following its mechanical refresh. Front disc brakes provide the necessary stopping power to handle the larger wheel and tire combination safely. The crossover steering conversion is a vital upgrade that eliminates the “bump steer” common in many lifted vintage trucks. With its 4-inch lift and dual-range transfer case, this Blazer offers genuine off-road capability that rivals many modern counterparts. These technical specifications make it a formidable performer across various terrains.
Summary of the Refurbished CST Offering
This 1971 Chevrolet K5 Blazer stands as a premier example of a well-executed restoration that respects the original manufacturer’s vision. By combining a body-off refresh with high-quality suspension components, the builders created a vehicle that drives as well as it looks. The documentation provided by the Service Parts Identification label confirms the truck’s authentic factory specifications. With very few miles since its completion, it remains in exceptional condition for its next owner. It is a versatile classic that offers the open-air freedom of a convertible with the go-anywhere attitude of a truck. This Blazer represents an investment-grade opportunity in the rapidly growing vintage SUV market.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
