STREET TRUCKS STAFF
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July 31, 2025
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Features
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He adjective “classy” (class-y / klas’e) is used to define something that is elegant, stylish and sophisticated, and to be truthful these are the perfect adjectives to describe this 1980 Chevy K5 Blazer build.
With the K5 Blazer market being on fire like it is nowadays, one should consider themselves very lucky to have the chance to own one of these classics. The lifted and lowered stances of the K5 Blazers are consistently demanding attention.
If you’re N2BNLOW like Jim and Kimberly Allen are from Santee, California, then you will be drooling over their 1980 Chevy K5 blazer named “NO CLEARANCE.”
When Jim was growing up in the ’80s he was a huge fan of the lowered Blazers and always wanted one of his own. As we all know life happens and Jim never had the chance to focus on himself and prioritize his dream. Now many years later and after becoming a leader in the construction industry, it was time for Jim to project manage his dream and build his Blazer.
First step was to find the right Blazer. After shopping around for several years and attending several auctions Jim still was not able to acquire a K5 he needed to start this project.
After some time had passed while looking on the internet, he found one at a consignment company that was out of state. The distance made it hard for Jim to move fast on the purchase.
He called and expressed interest but never received communication back in time. Several days later he noticed online that it had already been sold. The frustration Jim had was unbearable and casted a cloud on his upcoming family vacation.
As time went by, the day when his vacation was fast approaching and during the hectic-ness and packing, guess what happened next?
The Blazer that he wanted from the consignment company arrived at his front door. To surprise his wife Kimberly had secretly bought it and had it shipped to the house arriving 45 minutes before they were set to leave for the airport.
Jim was speechless but had no time to let it sink in of what just had happened. He took a quick drive around the block with the biggest smile on his face and had to quickly park it the garage and head to the airport.
What a great start to his vacation knowing that his dream K5 Blazer was finally his and waiting for him at home.
With the support of his wife Kimberly, once they returned home, they began making a list and pulling the triggers to build the dream truck that Jim had always wanted.
The big questions still needed to be answered: Did Jim know what he was getting into? How long would this build take? How much would it cost? Would it all come together the way they wanted? Let’s see how all of this turns out.
Jim started with a stock 1980 Chevrolet K5 Blazer 2WD.
Now let’s talk about adjusting the stance:
Next on Jim’s list were the exterior colors. This can be a hard choice since these colors always define the overall style of a build, so Jim and Kim had to decide if they wanted subtle or crazy custom designs. As you can see, they went with a couple classy colors with the nostalgic two-tone design.
The exterior colors they selected were:
I have to say that I love the fact that Jim kept the factory bumpers and grille, which keeps the authentic look front and center.
After making some major decisions on the powerplant and the exterior finishes, it’s time to move on to the interior.
This is where comfort meets the road, because no matter how cool your truck is, if you’re not comfortable behind the wheel you won’t enjoy driving it. I have to say that Jim will not have a problem.
The interior design and selections are phenomenal. Jim knew that he wanted to have a two-tone combo but wasn’t sure on how to achieve his dream interior. So, what did Jim do?
He turned to Old Town Upholstery in Escondido, California, and let them run with it.
So, after seeing Jim’s dream K5 Blazer come to life, I would have to say, “Well done!” Not only has Jim maintained the classic K5 look, but he also also kept it clean and classy.
Jim and Kimberly go to many events, such as Goodguys, C-10 Nationals, and South Eastern Truck Nationals. So, if you’re ever at one of these events go find Jim and take a look at this well-built gem and give him a big thumbs up for achieving his goal.
P.S. Jim, you better not EVER forget Kimberly’s birthday or an anniversary!!
We asked Jim a few questions about the process of building his dream Blazer. This is what he had to say.
Street Trucks: What was your biggest challenge during this build?
Jim Allen: “The hardest thing I encountered was waiting impatiently to drive it.”
Street Trucks: We have all been there Jim. Patience is a daily requirement for on a project like yours.
Street Trucks: What did you learn from building this Blazer?
Jim Allen: “Self control lol.”
Street Trucks: Haha, don’t forget to put “self-control” at the top of your list on the next build!
Street Trucks: What is one unique feature that you like the most about the Blazer?
Jim Allen: “I love my venetian blinds.”
Street Trucks: I agree, Jim. It’s a nice touch, and again, “classy!”
Street Trucks: How much did this build cost you?
Jim Allen: “A lot.”
Street Trucks: No dollar amount? Kimberly must have been standing close by. Lol
Street Trucks: How long did this project take you?
Jim Allen: “Three years.”
Street Trucks: That timeline is not that bad for what you accomplished, but I am sure it seemed like 10 years on some days.
Street Trucks: What was the highlight at the completion of your build?
Jim Allen: “Besides driving it for the first time, I would say it was the people I have met along the way who provided help and direction, and it was a blast just hanging out with other Chevy truck enthusiasts.”
Street Trucks: I couldn’t agree with you more Jim. There is a great group of enthusiasts that are always willing to share helpful information and ideas.
Overview:
The 1980 Chevrolet Blazer on offer is a full-sized, two-door sport-utility vehicle, featuring 4WD capabilities. This classic model comes equipped with a V8 350 engine and an automatic transmission, making it a desired find for enthusiasts and restorers alike.
Mechanical Condition:
Key Points:
Miscellaneous Information:
This opportunity is ideal for buyers looking to invest time and resources into restoring a classic 1980s sport-utility vehicle to its former glory.
The 1980 Chevrolet Blazer has undergone a meticulous conversion process to 2WD, bringing a blend of classic charm and modern functionality.
Stunning Wheels:
Sleek and Stylish: Set lower to the ground for a sporty and aggressive stance
Enhanced Drivability: Improved handling and performance due to the 2WD conversion
4×4 Drive System: Perfect for off-road adventures and rough terrains.
Cruise Control: Maintain a steady speed effortlessly during long drives.
Power Windows: Convenient one-touch window control for all passengers.
Heating System: Efficient heater that ensures warmth in colder months.
Air Conditioning: Note that the AC is currently non-functional.
This conversion ensures both aesthetic appeal and enhanced drivability, making the 1980 Chevrolet Blazer a standout choice for classic car enthusiasts.
This build replaces the original V6 with a Chevrolet Performance 502 Deluxe crate V8 with forged pistons, paired to a Turbo 350 transmission for reliable power delivery.
This Blazer uses a Belltech lowering kit and staggered 22-inch Raceline wheels to achieve a low, aggressive stance with minimal clearance.
The classy two-tone Root Beer Brown & Polar White paint, custom leather interior, and nostalgic details like Venetian blinds make it a standout classic build.
This project took about three years to complete, from acquiring the truck to the final finished build.
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