New to second generation blazers, and would just like some recommendations for what I am looking to do. Not sure if it is kind of a unicorn but I cannot seem to find much information on it, so that would also be welcomed. So it is a 1997 Blazer, it is the 2 door model with 4x4. The cool part to me is that it is a 5 speed as well, I was told it was the NV2500 transmission. It's paired with the beast of a 4.3L motor. Unfortunately it does not have a roof rack, I just want a way to store a tire that is not inside the vehicle is all and I like to camp as well! I am looking to lift it, and was looking for the best lift, with the tightest steering. I am also looking at a few different all terrain tires - I would also just like to hear recommendations on the bust all-terrain and on the quieter side which I know can be difficult to find. Roof rack options? Bumper/winch combos. Lastly, just any tid bits I need to know about the vehicle or maybe little things I can do to improve the drivability (cold air etc etc) of the vehicle as well! I know a lot of this has been covered in multiple different post scattered throughout, and I have read most but maybe there is something that I have not seen and would love to hear from you guys! Do not currently have photos but can attach some if anyone is interested.

 

Many 2dr 2nd gen Blazers came with external spare tire racks.

You should check if you have a limited slip rear axke or not. This will be indicated on the vehicle ID sticker on the inside of the glove compartment door list of RPO codes with a "G80." If you don't have this, you can likely find a replacement axle in a wrecking yard.

Many of us do mild lifts with longer shackles and cranking on the torsion bars. Rough Country sells a 2.5" lift kit that is popular.

The serious off roaders replace the IFS with a solid axle. If you went that route you can then more easily change your axle gear ratio to a lower gearing. I'm pretty sue the lowest gear ratios on the 2nd gen Blazers were 3.73:1 with RPO code GT4.

Few of us use cold air intakes and I don't think they are that useful unless you also insulate the air intake ducts.

Roof racks were a not uncommon option. You should be able to find one in a wrecking yard. It woukd probably be pain to remove.

You might find it easier to find another later year Blazer to use that already has the features you want, except for the lift. Finding one with a manual transmission would be the hardest challenge. If you can find a ZR2 with a manual, then you might have everything you want/need preppackaged for you.

 

Okay! Awesome, thank you so much! I appreciate your knowledge and detail. I’ll definitely be checking on those things you had mentioned. Also it doesn’t have the swinging door but the half glass/half door deal. Not sure if they make the tire rack for that or not.