Renowned custom car builder Ringbrothers has once again redefined the world of restomods with their latest masterpiece: the 1972 Chevrolet K5 Blazer, affectionately known as “TUKA.” This striking build is a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern engineering, meticulously crafted to deliver off-road capability without sacrificing urban style. From its hand-shaped bodywork to its roaring LS3 V8 engine, TUKA exemplifies Ringbrothers’ unparalleled attention to detail and dedication to pushing the boundaries of custom car building.
Over 3,700 Hours of Bespoke Craftsmanship
Ringbrothers invested more than 3,700 hours into transforming the classic K5 Blazer into a one-of-a-kind machine. The design team raised the tailgate and box sides by two inches to create a smoother, more balanced profile, ensuring the lines flow seamlessly from the door to the rear. The sculpted bodywork is finished in a deep, lustrous shade of Galactic Black, a custom BASF Glasurit Waterborne mix. Adding to its modern aesthetic, the Blazer’s rear top is entirely hand-built from fiberglass, featuring a panoramic roof borrowed from a contemporary Blazer and a rear window sourced from a Jeep Wrangler, carefully angled to mimic the Blazer’s original design.
A Beast Under the Hood: 525-Horsepower LS3 V8
Under the sleek, carbon-fiber hood lies a GM Performance 6.2-liter LS3 V8 engine, packing 525 horsepower and 487 ft-lbs of torque. This powerhouse is mated to a Bowler Tru-Street GM 4L60E automatic transmission, ensuring smooth shifts and effortless power delivery. The NP208 transfer case provides TUKA with serious off-road capability, while a custom suspension setup borrowed from a third-generation Toyota Tacoma ensures a stable and smooth ride on any terrain. King shocks all around and custom control arms from Total Chaos further enhance the Blazer’s off-road prowess.
Custom Wheels and Tech-Infused Interior
TUKA rides on custom-designed 18-inch bronze wheels from HRE, giving it a rugged yet refined stance. The bespoke cabin, designed by Sean Smith and executed by Gabe’s Custom Interiors, boasts cutting-edge technology and luxurious materials. The dashboard is made from carbon fiber and features Dakota Digital instrumentation, while billet-machined and 3D-printed components, such as the switchgear and gear selector, add a high-tech touch. A carbon-fiber steering wheel rounds out the driver’s interface, blending form and function seamlessly.
Built for the Road and the Trail
According to Ringbrothers co-owner Jim Ring, TUKA was designed to be equally comfortable on the streets and off-road trails. “This project is all about crafting something new and highly functional from a tried, true and familiar K5 that can be used daily while no stranger to playing in the dirt,” he said.
Mike Ring, the other half of the Ringbrothers duo, added: “We wanted to leave no stone unturned in creating something wholly unique, designed to embrace the open road and the unbeaten path. This truck is built for driving in style and with modern comfort.”
Summary/Specifications
- Engine: 6.2-liter GM Performance LS3 V8
- Power: 525 horsepower, 487 ft-lbs torque
- Transmission: Bowler Tru-Street GM 4L60E automatic
- Chassis: Modified third-gen Toyota Tacoma
- Suspension: Total Chaos control arms, King shocks
- Wheels: Custom 18-inch bronze HRE wheels
- Body: Hand-shaped, Galactic Black BASF Glasurit paint
- Interior: Carbon-fiber dashboard, Dakota Digital instrumentation, custom switchgear
For those looking to build their own customized Blazer, Ringbrothers offers a wide range of billet aluminum parts, carbon-fiber steering wheels, and more. Visit Ringbrothers.com for more information.
Source: Ringbrothers
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
