New to the Blazer world so sorry for the dumb questions:

Can someone confirm the following widths and explain what the different axles would be: (i.e. 8.5 inch, etc)

54.5" 2WD
59" for 4WD
63" for SR2

 

Those widths are correct. Most Blazers (except ZR2) came with a 7.5" rear axle. All ZR2s and a select few non-ZR2s came with an 8.5" or 8.6" rear axle, depending on the factory equipment.

Finding an 8.5" axle under a non-ZR2 is possible, but like searching for hen's teeth. They're desireable to people who are adding a lot of power as they are a lot stronger and can take more abuse.

 

It looks like you are listing off rear axle widths. WMS == Wheel Mounting Surface:As far as the axles themselves, there was a 7.5" ring gear 26 spline axle offered in the early S10 up until around 1992, the 7.625" ring gear 28 spline axle option from 88 to sometime in 92 and standard in 92 or 93 thru end of production, then the 8.5" ring gear 30 spline axle that was optional from 95 up and standard for the 98+ ZR2 trucks.

As stated above, the 8.5" axle is difficult to find in standard 4wd width and I don't know if it was ever put in a 2wd s-series.

 

Super helpful. So more than likely on a 2000-2005 Blazer 4WD will probably be a 7.625 ring gear. Sufficient for light duty 4WD? Trails-- nothing hard core. Or is their an upgrade that most people look to do? Anything specific in the VIN that I could validate which axle?

I had my eye on a ZR2 but for various reasons, decided to pass. I now have my eyes on a couple of non ZR2 trucks.

I am looking for a 2000-2005 2DR 4WD 'reasonable mileage' truck within a few hundred miles of Dallas, TX if anyone has any leads.

 

For trail riding and light off-road the regular axle will be fine. I doubt you'd have to worry about breaking anything unless you're doing more serious mods and going bigger than 31" tires and lockers. Lots of stories on here of people playing off-road just fine with the factory 7.6" axles.

 

Thank you!