The 1987 Chevrolet K5 Blazer represents the final year of the iconic “rounded line” body style before the 1988 redesign. Collectors cherish this specific year because it introduced factory fuel injection to the legendary square-body platform. This particular Silverado-trim example has undergone a transformation into a modern performance machine. It was acquired by the seller in 2024 and significantly modified for both power and comfort. The truck now features a late-model 6.2L Vortec V8 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. This swap provides a level of reliability and acceleration that the original small-block could never achieve. The exterior wears a sophisticated two-tone silver and gray vinyl wrap over its original blue paint. Every mechanical system has been touched, from the high-steer kit to the remote reservoir shocks. It is a build that respects the original silhouette while upgrading every functional component. Currently located in Georgia, this K5 is offered with a clean title and documented build history.
The exterior modifications on this 1987 Chevrolet K5 Blazer are both functional and visually striking. A 4-inch Offroad Design lift kit gives the truck an imposing presence on the road. Silver-wrapped removable hardtops remain a hallmark of the Blazer’s versatility for open-air driving. New bumpers and a Hickey bull bar finished in powder-coated silver protect the front end. Modern lighting is provided by LED headlamps and taillights, along with KC LED auxiliary driving lights. Bully side steps allow for easier access to the elevated cabin. For a clean look, the windows have been treated with a dark tint. The truck rolls on 16-inch Mickey Thompson Classic 111 wheels for a timeless off-road aesthetic. These wheels are wrapped in 35-inch BFGoodrich KO3 tires that fill the wheel wells perfectly. This combination ensures the Blazer looks just as home on a show field as it does on a trail. It is a cohesive design that modernizes the classic Chevy look.
Chassis Upgrades and Wilwood Braking Systems
Underneath the skin, this 1987 Chevrolet K5 Blazer features a heavily reinforced and modernized chassis. Stopping power is managed by a Wilwood four-wheel disc brake conversion with a matching master cylinder. This is a critical upgrade for handling the increased power of the Vortec engine. The suspension relies on Fox Performance Elite 2.5 shocks equipped with remote reservoirs for superior heat dissipation. To ensure precise handling, the builder installed an Offroad Design Hi-Steer kit and a Borgeson steering box. Reid knuckles and a Fox steering stabilizer further refine the feedback through the wheel. Consequently, this lifted truck avoids the vague steering feel common in many vintage 4×4 builds.
The drivetrain components were similarly overbuilt to handle the rigors of modern driving and off-road use. Both the front and rear axles were replaced during the build process to accommodate 3.31 gearing. The front axle retains manually locking hubs for traditional four-wheel-drive engagement. New driveshafts were fabricated to match the increased length required by the 4-inch lift. A heavy-duty sway bar was also integrated to keep body roll in check during highway cornering. These mechanical choices show a commitment to building a truck that actually drives well. It is not just about the height; it is about the engineering behind the stance. This Blazer offers a stable and confident ride that belies its nearly forty-year-old origins. It represents a significant investment in parts that most onlookers will never see but the driver will always feel.
Katzkin Leather Interior and JL Audio Integration
The cabin of the 1987 Chevrolet K5 Blazer was fully refurbished to provide a modern luxury experience. Later-model Chevrolet Tahoe seats were swapped in to offer better support and power adjustability for the driver. These seats are covered in premium gray Katzkin leather, providing a soft-touch surface that elevates the interior. Sound deadening was applied throughout the floor and doors to create a quiet, refined driving environment. Replacement carpets and an updated air conditioning system ensure the cabin stays comfortable in any climate. A Retrosound stereo maintains a vintage appearance while offering modern connectivity for the occupants. This unit is wired to a sophisticated JL Audio amplifier and a custom-enclosed 10-inch subwoofer.
Information is relayed to the driver through a set of Dakota Digital RTX gauges that mimic the original style. These gauges include a 120-mph speedometer and a digital odometer showing 3,700 miles since the build. A leather-wrapped steering wheel is mounted on a tilting column for improved driver ergonomics. Focal Flax 6.5-inch speakers are strategically placed to provide a high-fidelity sound stage throughout the truck. The rear area features a powered window, allowing for easy access to the cargo space. Every switch and handle has been checked to ensure the interior feels like a new vehicle. It is a thoughtful cabin that focuses on long-distance comfort without losing its rugged identity. This is a space where you can enjoy a cross-country trip or a short drive to the beach. The gray and blue color scheme is subtle and professional, matching the exterior wrap perfectly.
6.2L Vortec V8 Engine and 6L80E Transmission Specs
The primary highlight of this 1987 Chevrolet K5 Blazer is the 6.2L Vortec V8 engine installed in 2025. This modern powerplant features a Holley LS3 Lo-Ram manifold and a custom Airaid cold air intake system. To maintain a vintage feel, the engine is topped with Chevrolet script valve covers. It produces significantly more power than the original factory engines, allowing for effortless highway passing. This V8 is paired with a 6L80E six-speed automatic transmission for smooth and efficient gear changes. The exhaust system consists of tubular headers leading to Flowmaster mufflers for a deep, muscular tone. Dual radiator fans and a Jackfab billet reservoir ensure the cooling system can handle the high-output motor. Power reaches the wheels through a dual-range transfer case, providing both high and low gearing for off-road tasks. This drivetrain delivers modern supercar-levels of torque in a classic SUV package.
1987 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Summary
This 1987 Chevrolet K5 Blazer is a premier example of how to execute a modern 4×4 restomod. It combines the most desirable year of the square-body era with a potent Vortec powertrain. Every detail, from the Fox shocks to the Katzkin leather, has been chosen for maximum quality. The two-tone vinyl wrap provides a unique look that can easily be returned to the original blue paint. Its documentation is clear, and the 3,700 miles since completion suggest it is a fully sorted machine. It represents a massive saving in time and labor for a buyer who wants a turn-key custom truck. Bidders will appreciate the blend of rugged capability and interior luxury found in this build.
The market for K5 Blazers continues to grow, and high-quality engine swaps are particularly in demand. This truck stands out because it addresses the common weak points of the original platform, such as braking and steering. The inclusion of Wilwood discs and the Borgeson box makes it a safe and enjoyable daily driver. It is a vehicle that commands respect at any truck meet or classic car show. With its removable top and 4×4 drivetrain, it remains the ultimate summer cruiser. This Blazer is ready for its next adventure, whether that is on a trail or on the pavement. It is a well-rounded and professionally finished project that honors the Chevy legacy. This 1987 model is truly a standout in today’s crowded restomod market. It is prepared to serve its next owner with power and style.
Disclaimer: Content on this site is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Details, analyses, and opinions reflect current trends and personal views, not professional or financial advice. Always verify information with official sources before making any decisions.
Source: bringatrailer.com
