 |
| Years |
1988 - 1991 |
| Origin |
USA |
| Wheelbase |
106.5" |
| Engine |
5.7 Liter
/ 350 c.i. V8 – 210 HP
6.2L V8 Diesel engine - 130 hp (optional) |
| Transmission |
TH700-R4 automatic
(4-speed overdrive) |
| Transfer Case |
NP208 (2.61:1
low range) / NP241 (2.72:1 low range) |
| Front Axle |
GM corporate
10-bolt |
| Rear Axle |
GM corporate
10-bolt |
|
Looking for a full-size 4x4 with good gearing, V8 power, classic
styling and a removable top? Look no further than the ’88
Chevy K5 Blazer.
While 1987 saw the first throttle body fuel injection, that particular
year came with a v-belt accessory drive system. 1988 sported the
same engine, but was upgraded with a serpentine belt accessory
drive system. While 1985 was the first year to sport the TH700-R4
transmission, 1988 saw an upgraded version which was more durable.
Standard transmission fans also enjoyed an incredibly deep, incredibly
stout SM465 transmission, giving the K5 a stump-pulling 73.0:1
compound low-range ratio – wow!
1990 may have been our favorite year, as there were a number
of major improvements made to the 350 V8 motor. They included
improved oil control rings, a redesigned rear crankshaft seal
(finally), a new camshaft sprocket design, non-asbestos intake
manifold gaskets, and heavy-duty intake valves.
While the 1988-1991 K5 Blazers didn’t break any off-road
ground, they were tough full size rigs with great off-road prowess.
Owners could take the top off their rig and enjoy the open-air
feeling of wheeling with the smaller utility vehicles, like Jeeps
and Land Cruisers. The Blazer had a tight turning radius, which
meant it could go places that other full size rigs struggled to
go.
If the K5 Blazer had any issues, it was certainly with their
front and rear axles. The Corporate 10-bolt axles were never known
for their strength, and the rear axle had a c-clip design that
was not only weak, but if (and when) it broke while off-roading,
it meant that the owner was badly stranded.
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