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?

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.

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?

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

Sweet! I appreciate it!

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.

https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/blazerf...2b3ffeef59.jpg
Dont mind the snow... most reacent pic i could find lol

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.
https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/blazerf...7cefbdcd7.jpeg

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

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.

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...

https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/blazerf...1ac8e0a0b.jpeg
The day it went into the ditch. Evwrything went flying, but nothing broke.

Okay. Thanks! I’m just debating because I’m in the southeast and gas prices are going up quickly. My suspension needs fixed because it’s worn out and squeaks terribly. I’m not sure if I should take the gamble with a lift or just fix the suspension. Is there anything you know of and would recommend to give it a little better fuel economy? It’s kind of a tall order when talking about lifts. Lol.

My fuel hasn't been hurt by the lift. Barely even noticeable.

But a thorough tune up will help, there isn't really too much that can be done to these engines for that kind of stuff, so I've read on here lol.

If your trying to go by costs, I would make a list of what you would need to do the repairs, and then compare with the price of the lift. Also think about how fast the stock parts will wear with any abuse you plan on giving. That's what led me to get my lift instead of sticking with stock.

That sounds like what I should do. I’m an avid mountain biker and a lot of the trails I go to have really rough roads. That’s why I was thinking of a lift. I think I’ll compare the costs. Although I’ll be pulling from junkyards a lot if I can which will hopefully reduce cost. Thanks for the advice! I’m really new to all of this. Still learning.