Outlined below is a history of the Chevrolet K5 Blazer. For a quicker review and information about lifted / off-road Blazers check out our Review page. For more technical information see our Features & Specifications page.
The Chevy K5 Blazer was first introduced in 1969 and was essentially a short wheelbase truck based off of the Chevrolet C/K family. Because on the K5 success, General Motors would also introduce a GMC version called the Jimmy in 1970. Although Blazers were made available in both 2WD and 4WD they were much more popular as an off-road vehicle. However, 2WD slammed and lowered Blazers are also a popular resto-mod among today’s enthusiasts.
K5 Removable Hardtop
Early K5 Blazers were notable for their removal top making them a full convertible. This was a key design element that placed them design wise in competition with the Jeep Wrangler and International Harvester Scout.
In 1976 the removable top was replaced with a half-cab design to improve leak issues and rollover safety. This design change gave the K5 a pick truck look, with a partial convertible open air feel, as the cab while covered by the top was still exposed to the elements.
In addition there is an aftermarket soft top available for these “3rd generation” Blazers. See our Soft Top page for more information.
Discontinuation
Over 850,000 Chevy K5 Blazers were produced during its long and successful 22 year run before being replaced by the GMC Yukon/Chevrolet Tahoe in 1991/1994. The K5 Blazer spanned two body style generations and had a variety of powertrain options. In addition, several special Military Commercial Utility Cargo Vehicle versions of the K5 were made during the 1980s. A few of these are still in use by official government offices and owned by some civilians today. (See below for more information)
Continue reading below for a little more information about the early and later generation K5 Blazer. For more specific information be sure to check out our Features and Specs page.
1st Generation (1969 – 1972)
The first generation Chevrolet K5 Blazer was introduced for the 1969 model year. It was essentially a short wheelbase Chevy truck with a removal hardtop offering a full convertible riding option. The first model year was only offered in 4X4 but in 1970, two wheel drive (2WD) was made available and every other model year thereafter until 1982.
The initial marketing concept was a utilitarian rugged capable 4X4 like the Jeep CJ or International Scout but with some of the luxury SUV amenities such as air conditioning, power accessories and an optional automatic transmission. Although both Ford and Dodge had very similar models with the Bronco and Ramcharger, these earlier K5 Blazers outsold both of them.
2nd Generation (1973 – 1991)
The second generation K5 Blazer was brought up to date with GM’s line of full size trucks. This included changing the full convertible removal hard top to a half-cab design which was less prone to leaks and seal issues.
Another notable design change was a more squared off front grille like GMT 400 platform pickups.
1980s K5 Blazers are also well known for their use as Military Commercial Utility Cargo Vehicles. Known as the M1009 CUCV, these were produced from 1983 to 1987. Core changes to the militarized version are as follows:
- Removal of Air Conditioning Unit
- Additional leaf spring in suspension
- Hybrid 12/24 V Electrical System
- Blackout Headlights
- Front Mounted Brush Guard
- Rifle Rack
- Olive Drab, Woodland Camouflage or Desert Tan Paint Jobs
Some of these since “decommissioned” Military K5 Blazers are still used today by law enforcement and the National Guard. There are also some owned by civilians that were purchased via government auctions.
M1009 CUCV Military K5 Blazer
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hi were the k5 blazer used in army or marines or navy ??