So after a lot of talk. My wife and I have finally decided to starts seeing the country in the Blazer. This will be a long term build. In the trucks immediate future it will be seeing, a winch, a custom full length roof rack and possibly a snorkel. Everything else will be on a as needed basis. Id rather not spend tons of money on stuff I don't need or likely not to use (except recovery gear). In the future We'll look into things like roof top tents, 2-3" suspension lift, fridges, drawers, tables and etc. We are starting out with what is essentially just a strip model 1985 Chevrolet 4wd Blazer. No radio, no A/C, bare bones interior, roll up windows and heat. It was originally built for and purchased by the US ARMY. So being that is designated a M1009 CUCV. Its equipped with 10 Bolts axles front and rear with 3.08 gears and a Gov-lok Diff in the rear. 6.2L N/A diesel engine, TH400 3spd auto and NP208 transfer case. All pretty common fair for mid 80's GM square bodies just not available in that combo to the public. Not common is the hybrid 12v/24v electrical system. Really just a 24V starter and fuel cutoff solenoid. Everything else is standard 12V equipment with exception to the twin 100 amp isolated ground alternators. 
The truck is a solid runner. I've owned it for over 5 years now and its been pretty reliable. I prefer its bigger cousin the M1008 which is basically a K30 1 ton pickup in military clothing. But they are not as suitable for long distance travel, 4.56 geared axles. Unless you like listening to screaming diesels and time is of no concern. 55mph is the end of the world for them. Been there, done that, bought the t-shirt. Right now my first goal is to mount my winch. Trying to decide if I want it out front and built onto the bumper/Grill guard or behind the bumper. I've seen it done both ways. I prefer behind the bumper as it preserves approach angles, keeps it out of plain sight and offers some weather protection. However it makes it difficult to access the clutch handle. In any case the control/solenoid box will be mounted high inside the engine compartment. Not on the winch. Thats it for now. Look forward to adding more and sharing it here.
The truck is a solid runner. I've owned it for over 5 years now and its been pretty reliable. I prefer its bigger cousin the M1008 which is basically a K30 1 ton pickup in military clothing. But they are not as suitable for long distance travel, 4.56 geared axles. Unless you like listening to screaming diesels and time is of no concern. 55mph is the end of the world for them. Been there, done that, bought the t-shirt. Right now my first goal is to mount my winch. Trying to decide if I want it out front and built onto the bumper/Grill guard or behind the bumper. I've seen it done both ways. I prefer behind the bumper as it preserves approach angles, keeps it out of plain sight and offers some weather protection. However it makes it difficult to access the clutch handle. In any case the control/solenoid box will be mounted high inside the engine compartment. Not on the winch. Thats it for now. Look forward to adding more and sharing it here.
