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ZR2 suspension swap

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Old May 18, 2021 | 08:19 AM
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Default ZR2 suspension swap

I have an 03 2 door 4wd blazer that I’d like to make it just a bit more capable off-road while not losing too much fuel economy and regular functionality. Would it be possible to swap over the suspension components from a ZR2 blazer to mine? If so, how easy or hard would it be?
 
Old May 18, 2021 | 11:51 AM
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Not easy, mounting locations for the front control arms are in different locations, if I am thinking correctly. Maybe look into a mild lift, as in rough country, or make your own like christine did. There are build threads on both.

If you do want to look into a zr2 swap, there's a thread on that aswell... lots of cutting and welding.
 
Old May 18, 2021 | 01:23 PM
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Ok. Thanks for the info! How badly would a lift stress the U-Joints in my drivetrain? My blazer also happens to have over 270,000 miles on it. Are there things I need to worry about or take care of ahead of time if I were to install a lift?
 
Old May 18, 2021 | 01:32 PM
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U joints should be good, just keep up with the greasing... if its just mild offroad, you should be good.

When I got my lift, I did my cv axles at the same time(they needed to be done anyways). Other then that, I would check your leaf spring bushings, and lower control arm bushings. Also would get some sway bar bushings as you'll be pulling those off, and aren't too expensive to replace. Lower ball joints will be touched, would check them out. Idler arm sucks on these to begin with, so I would pick one up, or look into a 1ton upgrade.

Can't think of anything else on the top of my head, at work right now lol
 
Old May 18, 2021 | 06:36 PM
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Sweet! I appreciate it!
 
Old May 18, 2021 | 08:16 PM
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Np... I got the 2.5 rc lift, with an add a leaf on the rear to add about 2", which helps level the truck while towing my camper.

I should add this about the zr2 package.

Find one and take the rear axle and front diff. They have a bigger gear, and the rear axle is 2" wider, to level the front and rear stance.

The front diff will bolt in, rear axle might require small modification I think. I got mine from a s10, but I think I heard one from a blazer goes in easier. Don't quote that part lol.


Dont mind the snow... most reacent pic i could find lol
 
Old May 18, 2021 | 08:22 PM
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That looks sweet! I’d love to get mine looking like that. It certainly has potential. Again, thanks for the info! I think I’ll be trying to find a ZR2 to swap the rear axle and the front diff into mine. Also want to get the rear tire mount off of one to get my tire out of the cab. This is what mine looks like right now except I just painted the tow hooks red. I only paid $800 for it since it had a misfire which I’m currently fixing.
 
Old May 19, 2021 | 04:25 AM
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It's a solid looking ride to start with. And can't complain for that price.

You would never know that my blazer came out of a ditch the night before that pic lol. More info in my build thread on that lol
 
Old May 19, 2021 | 12:30 PM
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Wow! Never would’ve guessed it just came out of a ditch. How well does the rc lift ride? I’ve heard mixed things about it.
 
Old May 19, 2021 | 01:48 PM
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I'm happy with it. I had troubles finding the right ball joints when they went, but since it's been figured out, not that bad.

the shock absorbers did not last long. ball joints are debatable...


The day it went into the ditch. Evwrything went flying, but nothing broke.
 



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