99-LS1-SS

I'm getting ready to get a 1972 2WD Blazer. It was my dad's and then my older brother's and now I'm getting it. The issue is that it's been sitting outside for the last 10 years and the stock 307 is blown. The body is straight but rusted. My first concern is to get it in a reliable running condition.

Here is what I "plan" on doing to it:

Put a new crate motor in it. (nothing powerful just a 290/350 crate motor)
Put a new radiator in it. (I would feel better doing this.)
Swap the 3 on the tree for a decent 350TH transmission.
Make the rear axle positive traction. (not a priority but something I want to do)

What else should I be considering? I have a wife and daughter and I want to be able to haul them around safely and reliably. I'm wondering if I should upgrade the brakes. Also, is the conversion from the manual to the automatic a pain in the *** or is it relatively straight forward?

Thanks for any help!

custom 68

iTrader: (8)

I have always loved those first gen blazers. check out this site it is the all knowing on classic chevy trucks including the Blazers.
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/

99-LS1-SS

I've always loved them too.
I actually ran across that board while hunting for information. Thanks!

72 Z-28

iTrader: (2)

You may run into having to replace your steering coalum depending on if you are going to do a floor shift or on the coalum. Im not for sure about this but you may want to look into it. Also some other stuff to think about is driveshaft lengths and yokes. Hope this helps