Swapping EVERYTHING!!

06camarodude · 06-27-2008, 05:31 AM

Hello everyone! I know I haven't really been active on here lately, but a combination of school and work have kept me away from my vehicles, apart from DD'ing them, for several months. For those of you who may not know me, my name is Nick, and I'm a 20 year old College student, who happens to also be a die-hard car nut. My primary vehicle, also my pride and joy, is my 1993 Pontiac Formula Firebird with the LT1 and 700R4 trans. My secondary vehicle, the project that never started, is a 1976 Datsun 280Z, which I recently decided to sell.

Then there's my 1994 GMC Sonoma, affectionately named "Slonoma," which has been sitting in the driveway, waiting for attention, for nearly a year. The time has come for the truck to see DD duty again. However, it's going to be a long, hard road to get there (no pun intended), but it's going to be worth it.

I've never really attempted a project of this magnitude, but I think it should all work out rather well.

I suppose I should inform you of my plan. . .

The Sonoma has seen better days. It isn't running well, it has several little bugs that combine to form the bane of my existence in the shape of a 4x4 that doesn't run when there's a foot of snow on the ground and you are trying to get home for a nice Christmas with your family. It has suffered front end damage, and it is obvious that the years of Michigan winters and Off-Roading have taken their toll on the old girl, and 209,000 miles on the clock doesn't help her case much either. There are scratches all over, the previous owner did a bad job "Customizing" it, which included silver spray paint and a 2" Body Lift kit. The gas filler neck is held to the bed side with a coat hanger, the passenger door doesn't open from the outside, the driver's door doesn't open from the inside, and there are stains in the seats and mud caked on the dash, it's missing carpet and a side view mirror, and the cab corners are rusted out.

Here are a couple of pics of the Sonoma:

This is all going to change. Last fall, my Dad bought a 1998 Chevy Blazer 2 Door. It has the 4.3 Vortec, 4WD, Dark Grey cloth interior, Alloy wheels, and it has a very clean engine and trans with less than 100k miles. It WAS a beautiful truck. However, the Blazer has also seen better days. My Dad was side-swiped by a large Semi earlier this year, forcing the Blazer over a curb and into a telephone pole. The truck was totaled, and it has been sitting in the "Doomed" corner of the driveway, along side the Sonoma, ever since it was towed home from the scene of the accident.

Here are some pics of the Blazer after the accident:

SO, we took a look at the Blazer after the accident, and apparently the only damage done to the engine was the radiator was damaged, and the coolant overflow tank was crushed. These parts have already been located at a local junkyard. I traded Dad my old Camaro for the totaled Blazer, since they were both destined to be sold for scrap anyway. I am selling my secondary vehicle, the Datsun, to pay off a loan my Dad gave me, and the rest of the proceeds from that will go to purchasing the new front clip and cab corners for the Sonoma.

We will begin the engine removal in the Blazer first, since the Sonoma still runs and drives (albeit very poorly), and the Blazer's front clip can and will be completely removed for easier access to the engine and transmission. While this is in progress, we will also focus on removing EVERYTHING from the Sonoma. That's right, EVERYTHING. I will be removing the bed, as I will be replacing it with a step-side box I found for $300 at a local scrapyard, the interior will be replaced with that from the Blazer, and the front clip will be removed almost completely as well. The passenger side fender needs to be replaced, and I have already cleaned up a nice used replacement fender and shaved the antenna, all it needs is paint and it will be ready to go on. The front fascia, I.E. the grille, headlights, and bumper, will be removed and replaced with those from a '98+ S10/Blazer, since that is the front end I liked the most. I might go with a '98+ Sonoma/Jimmy, since I really like that style as well, but I'm not quite sure yet.

The interior will be pretty nice once it's finished. I thought about it, and there aren't really any differences between the two vehicles as far as wiring goes, there isn't really anything in the Blazer behind the doors that isn't in the Sonoma, except for an extra dome light and a popper for the back window, and I think that would be ideal for shaving the tailgate handle, it could be controlled by the remote for the keyless entry. The Blazer came with a factory alarm, keyless entry, power windows, door locks, the digital compass/thermometer/MPG readout in the overhead console, and a stock CD/AM/FM Stereo with add-on Cassette deck in the center console. It should be really easy to incorporate all of this into the Sonoma, as I'm basically re-wrapping all of the good stuff from the Blazer in a pickup truck's body. The spare dome light from the Blazer can be used to illuminate the bed, or maybe could be split and run to some illuminated side steps or something. This truck is going to take some work, but looking at what I've already got available for the transformation, I think I should be alright. It shouldn't cost more than a couple hundred dollars for the body parts I need, maybe more considering I'm doing a full front fascia swap, but I will still end up with a VERY nice truck, for a fraction of the cost of trying to find one like it somewhere. I think I will be happy with the finished product, and I know I've got the technical know-how and the mechanical ability to pull it off.

This should be an interesting project, and I can't wait to show you guys some progress pics! I hope to spend more time on the forums, I have learned a bunch from you guys already, I plan to continue coming here for help and support as I continue to go boldly where I have never gone before. . .

06camarodude · 06-27-2008, 05:53 AM

Just for those of you who like to visualize the goal so you know what I'm going for, I'm hoping to take my truck from this:

To This:

The only things that will be different from the last pic is that I won't have a front license plate (not required in MI), I will not have clear corners, I would rather have the stock corners with the driving/fog lights on the inside of them, and it will sit a little higher. I'm going to be aiming for about stock height, or maybe a 2-3 inch suspension lift. The rims are going to be the stockers from the Blazer, I just need a new set of tires before I can swap them onto the Sonoma.

I'll post up the progress pics sometime within the next week or so, I should be getting some work done on the truck later today if the weather stays nice.

beandip · 06-27-2008, 06:17 AM

Thats going to take alot of work, keep us updated and pics are a must

.

06camarodude · 06-27-2008, 06:59 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by beandip

Thats going to take alot of work, keep us updated and pics are a must .

Believe me, pics will be coming in as the work is done. The only problem I see is that I work nights, sleep during the day, and I'm only really alive during the afternoon/evening, so all of this work is going to be done during the later part of the day. I'll be doing all of it in my driveway, and when it comes time for paint, that will happen in the garage. I just want a decent looking truck that's fun to drive and reliable. I love my Firebird, it's a blast to drive, but it just gets horrible gas mileage (15 around town and about 18-19 on the highway), and I know that I can pull off better mileage with a low miles 4.3 in the truck. I'd rather invest some time and money into this one and have a sweet vehicle to drive year-round rather than drive the hell out of the Firebird and be up a creek without a paddle come winter. The appearance is the last thing on my mind right now, I'm just hoping to have the engine and trans swapped over, all of the wiring swapped, and the truck road-worthy in a month or so.

I work as a Security Guard, and my primary assignment is doing rounds of the local school buildings and responding to alarms and such. I do rounds from Midnight to 4am 7 days a week. That's 35 miles a night, works out to 245 miles a week, and I only get a $40 fuel stipend each week. This means I need to somehow pull about 25mpg to come out even. I'm working on getting the fuel stipend increased due to rising fuel costs, but it's obvious that 15mpg is NOT 25mpg. If I can pull in 20mpg average in the combined city/highway driving I do, I'll be happy to eat the difference in cost.

Besides the school rounds, I don't really do much else, so I have plenty of time to dedicate to this project. I've already begun to teardown the interior of the Blazer, and so far I've removed the gauge cluster, door panels, stereo headunit, speakers, kick panels, overhead console, and basically everything else I could reach easily with the vehicle parked where it is.

The easy part is going to be gutting the Sonoma, since there isn't really anything I need to save, I can just rip most of it out. It's going to the scrapyard eventually anyways. The hard part is going to be carefully removing everything from the Blazer, and remembering where all the wires go, where the screws/bolts/nuts all came from, and how each piece goes in. I am going to strip both vehicles, and while I've got the motor and trans out of the Sonoma, I'll start swapping the wiring from the Blazer into the Sonoma, carefully labeling the wires based on location. After the wires are in, I can start swapping the motor and trans in. Once that's all done, I'll get started with the dash and interior re-assembly. After that's done, I should have the truck ready to start, and I can begin any troubleshooting. I'm going to give myself 2 weeks to get the truck stripped and start swapping the wiring over, one week for the engine/trans swap, and an additional week or two to get the interior and any loose ends squared away. This is very exciting for me, I can't wait to see what the finished product is like!

I'll keep you all posted!!

zdanovich · 06-27-2008, 07:10 AM

good luck! my 01 s10 was in a bad accident and i slowly pieced it back together too.

06camarodude · 06-27-2008, 01:34 PM

Quick question, is there any way to install a 3rd door into the Sonoma? I really wouldn't mind having one, especially since I have a dog that's going to be riding behind the seats until she's big enough to ride in the bed (she's only 8 weeks old right now, she won't be fully grown for about a year). I've always thought that would be pretty cool. I guess with the lack of any kind of decent rear seat, though, that would be a pretty impractical modification.

Pics will be up later tonight! I've got an appointment to detail a minivan later this afternoon, and a friend needs help bleeding his brakes this evening, but I'm going to be working on cleaning up the Sonoma until then. Hopefully I can have it running so I can move it to the other side of the Blazer (closer to the garage) and turn it around so the front ends are next to each other and there's enough room to open the doors on both. I'll be back on here later to post up some pics.

If anyone is in the SE MI area and wants to help on a weekend or something, let me know, I'd be glad to have you!

First things first, though, I have to get everything I want to keep out of my Camaro, the junkyard is coming to tow it away at 3:30. I

06camarodude · 06-27-2008, 03:19 PM

Well, today was spent cleaning out my Camaro so the junkyard could pick it up, they are going to be here in 15 minutes. The Datsun is out front with a "For Sale" sign in the window, and I got the tires all aired up in the Sonoma. I'll be swapping the '98 Blazer rims onto the Sonoma this evening, and getting the Blazer set up so it can be rolled around the driveway.

I also decided it would be easier to swap bodies rather than ripping into the drivetrain, since that in itself would be a massive can of worms I'd rather not open. I'll be stripping both the Blazer and the Sonoma simultaneously, and when the time comes, I'll be getting some pics of both sans bodies. This is going to be a real project, I don't like what I'm getting myself into. . . lol

Speedy2222 · 06-27-2008, 03:53 PM

have fun with the 4x4

dngrous_dime · 06-27-2008, 04:04 PM

subscribed, and check out oaktowntrucks.com and greatlakes4x4.com

Swapping bodies isn't the greatest idea, the Blazer has a very different frame. You'd need to have custom body mounts made for the bed.

kacy · 06-27-2008, 04:10 PM

good luck my 4x4 only gets 20 on the interstate...for all the work your gonna be doing why not drop in a 4.8l ls engine and get better mileage?

06camarodude · 06-27-2008, 04:45 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by dngrous_dime

subscribed, and check out oaktowntrucks.com and greatlakes4x4.com

Swapping bodies isn't the greatest idea, the Blazer has a very different frame. You'd need to have custom body mounts made for the bed.

It was my Dad's idea, he swore up and down that the frame was the same, I told him they weren't, but I trusted his 35+ years of auto body experience, but to be honest with you, he was arguing a point that he wasn't even sure of. At this point, I've got two 4.3 Vortec S-Series vehicles in the driveway, both of which have their positive and negative features, and the game plan is still up in the air.

Latest development is that it may be more worthwhile to bolt the Blazer back together with parts from the Sonoma, make it driveable and complete, leave the quarter panel alone, replace the front clip, and sell it for a quick couple of grand. It still has a clean title, relatively low miles, and it could be a pretty nice vehicle in the right hands. I could use the profits from that and some money I save up to buy the truck I really want.

Which leads me to my next question: Is the increased gas mileage of the 2.2 4 cylinder 5 speed S10 really worth the lack of power? I'm looking for a vehicle that's fun to drive and more fuel efficient than my Firebird. I don't do much hauling, yet the styling of the S10 eXtreme has always been appealing to me, but the fact that I'm used to driving relatively powerful vehicles makes me a little wary to go out and buy a 4 cylinder truck.

If anyone could give me a recommendation, I'd really appreciate it!

dngrous_dime · 06-27-2008, 04:48 PM

When I was looking for a truck, the last thing I wanted was a 2.2L auto. But, the price was right.

If you want awesome MPG, an S-10 is the last vehicle you should consider, except for maybe an 85 Suburban.

06camarodude · 06-27-2008, 05:59 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by dngrous_dime

When I was looking for a truck, the last thing I wanted was a 2.2L auto. But, the price was right.

If you want awesome MPG, an S-10 is the last vehicle you should consider, except for maybe an 85 Suburban.

Well, the reason I was looking at an S10 is because I need a vehicle that is good in inclement weather, particularly Michigan winters. I drove my Sonoma for a winter, and it didn't get stuck at all, even driving down roads covered with over a foot of snow. I was originally considering a 4 Cylinder 5 speed Jeep Wrangler, but those get even worse gas mileage.

Do you have any suggestions as to what I could be looking for? I like the S10's because they are good looking trucks, they get better gas mileage than a full size Chevy truck, and they have a decent aftermarket following. Post up any suggestions, ideally I would have a 4WD vehicle that gets 25+ MPG, but I'll settle for 22-24 MPG in the city.

dngrous_dime · 06-27-2008, 06:08 PM

Subaru.

Actually, I've never had a problem with a 2WD s-10 in snow, so maybe you just suck at driving?

(kidding)

rockyroad217 · 06-27-2008, 06:08 PM

i have no complaints with my 2.2..its been a pretty reliable motor, besides it likes to nickel and dime you to death..but it has 200,000 miles..so ill settle with that lol

06camarodude · 06-27-2008, 07:07 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by dngrous_dime

Subaru.

Actually, I've never had a problem with a 2WD s-10 in snow, so maybe you just suck at driving? (kidding)

It's not that I suck at driving, it's that we routinely get 10-14 inches of snow at a time here in MI, and my job requires that I drive to rather remote areas that aren't plowed regularly, i.e. buildings back in the woods, on dirt roads, Vo-Tech buildings that aren't used during winter break, etc. The snow accumulates, and 2WD doesn't do well in snow that comes over the top of the bumper. I drove a 1994 V6 Camaro 5 speed for 2 winters, and never got it stuck once, I think I'm a decent driver. lol I know you were just kidding.

What kind of gas mileage would a subaru pull in, and what does a decent used one go for on average?

dngrous_dime · 06-28-2008, 12:09 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by 06camarodude

It's not that I suck at driving, it's that we routinely get 10-14 inches of snow at a time here in MI, and my job requires that I drive to rather remote areas that aren't plowed regularly, i.e. buildings back in the woods, on dirt roads, Vo-Tech buildings that aren't used during winter break, etc. The snow accumulates, and 2WD doesn't do well in snow that comes over the top of the bumper. I drove a 1994 V6 Camaro 5 speed for 2 winters, and never got it stuck once, I think I'm a decent driver. lol I know you were just kidding.

What kind of gas mileage would a subaru pull in, and what does a decent used one go for on average?

I'm not sure what Subies get for mpg. Shoot a PM to SneekyPete on here, he knows his shit about them.

And I live up by Traverse City, 10-14" is nothin...

06camarodude · 06-28-2008, 05:11 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by dngrous_dime

I'm not sure what Subies get for mpg. Shoot a PM to SneekyPete on here, he knows his shit about them.

And I live up by Traverse City, 10-14" is nothin...

I live about 15 minutes from Ohio state lines, we get 10-14" in a night, and the county road commission is tripping over themselves with no idea what to do. Hell, two weeks after I bought my Sonoma, back when it was roadworthy, I passed 3 county road commission trucks (the big salt trucks) that had gotten themselves stuck in the snow! That takes some serious concentration, to get a truck that big stuck that badly! lol

lowcherrydime · 06-28-2008, 05:17 AM

i'm lost are you lowering the truck now or something

dngrous_dime · 06-28-2008, 08:48 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by 06camarodude

I passed 3 county road commission trucks (the big salt trucks) that had gotten themselves stuck in the snow! That takes some serious concentration, to get a truck that big stuck that badly! lol

Did you ever notice those are 2WD, and driven by guys that make teenagers look like good drivers.

06camarodude · 06-28-2008, 05:10 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by dngrous_dime

Did you ever notice those are 2WD, and driven by guys that make teenagers look like good drivers.

These aren't the pickups with the spreaders, I'm talking about the huge International's with the dump bed, plow, and salt spreaders on them. . . And I couldn't believe that I cruised right past 3 of them stuck without any problems, in my little POS Sonoma 4.3 with a loud "clunking" noise from the left front suspension, a poorly installed 2" body lift (remnants from prev. owner), and a trans that breaks the tires loose into 3rd gear. Just seems kind of odd to me. . . lol

I looked around the forums some more, and found a couple of threads describing the same symptoms my truck has, and I think the FPR or the "Nut Kit" is bad. Looked up the FPR on Advance Auto's website, it's like $35. I'm going to put off the motor swap BS, if I can get the truck running with the motor that's in it, I think I'd rather just repair that. It seems like that would be the easiest option. Plus, the junkyard offered me $400 for the Blazer in the condition it's in now. That would just about pay for a new front clip and some cab corners. Save up a bit more after that, I could get the materials I need to paint the truck, some new rubber, and I'd have a decent looking vehicle! Plus, from what I've heard from people on this site, the 4.3 Vortec/Auto Ext. Cab trucks are able to pull in around 20mpg if you stay out of the gas. I think that with a new FPR & Nut Kit, removing the crappy lift kit, and replacing the driver's side ball joint, I'd have a nice start for a custom 4x4 S10/Sonoma.

I just don't think I'll be happy with a 4 cylinder 2WD S10, and I've already got all of the rest of the features I wanted in a truck.

I'll keep you posted on my progress, I just have to find the keys to the darn truck before I can get started. . . lol

kacy · 06-28-2008, 05:18 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by 06camarodude

These aren't the pickups with the spreaders, I'm talking about the huge International's with the dump bed, plow, and salt spreaders on them. . . And I couldn't believe that I cruised right past 3 of them stuck without any problems, in my little POS Sonoma 4.3 with a loud "clunking" noise from the left front suspension, a poorly installed 2" body lift (remnants from prev. owner), and a trans that breaks the tires loose into 3rd gear. Just seems kind of odd to me. . . lol

I looked around the forums some more, and found a couple of threads describing the same symptoms my truck has, and I think the FPR or the "Nut Kit" is bad. Looked up the FPR on Advance Auto's website, it's like $35. I'm going to put off the motor swap BS, if I can get the truck running with the motor that's in it, I think I'd rather just repair that. It seems like that would be the easiest option. Plus, the junkyard offered me $400 for the Blazer in the condition it's in now. That would just about pay for a new front clip and some cab corners. Save up a bit more after that, I could get the materials I need to paint the truck, some new rubber, and I'd have a decent looking vehicle! Plus, from what I've heard from people on this site, the 4.3 Vortec/Auto Ext. Cab trucks are able to pull in around 20mpg if you stay out of the gas. I think that with a new FPR & Nut Kit, removing the crappy lift kit, and replacing the driver's side ball joint, I'd have a nice start for a custom 4x4 S10/Sonoma.

I just don't think I'll be happy with a 4 cylinder 2WD S10, and I've already got all of the rest of the features I wanted in a truck.

I'll keep you posted on my progress, I just have to find the keys to the darn truck before I can get started. . . lol

hey craigslist is your best friend I got a core support,bumper,bumper cover,grill and both composite headlights for $75 i know I got a hell of a deal but still.Got a p/s fender from a local junkyard for $60 just keep your eyes open.

dngrous_dime · 06-28-2008, 07:20 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by 06camarodude

These aren't the pickups with the spreaders, I'm talking about the huge International's with the dump bed, plow, and salt spreaders on them. . .

Yeah, I'm pretty sure most of those are 2WD.

06camarodude · 06-29-2008, 06:07 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by dngrous_dime

Yeah, I'm pretty sure most of those are 2WD.

Oh, that makes it a little less impressive then, I guess. lol

06camarodude · 06-29-2008, 06:17 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by kacy

hey craigslist is your best friend I got a core support,bumper,bumper cover,grill and both composite headlights for $75 i know I got a hell of a deal but still.Got a p/s fender from a local junkyard for $60 just keep your eyes open.

I priced out everything on ebay, and I already have the fender I need. The total comes to about $450 for everything I'll need for the S10 front end swap, including headlights, turn signals, grille, core support, and a sweet looking brush guard. I should be ordering everything but the brush guard after I get the truck running.

This leads me to my next question: Is the transmission from the Blazer a direct swap for the one in the Sonoma? The Sonoma has always shifted really hard, breaking the tires loose into 2nd AND 3rd gear, and I'd really just like to have it driving like it's supposed to.

I'm also going to need to fix an exhaust leak, because the truck sounds like an old clunker when it's running. It has a new muffler, but the donut gasket needs replacing, and I would like to try an aftermarket exhaust setup out on this one. Any suggestions?

06camarodude · 06-29-2008, 07:55 PM

Another idea I've been tossing around; The Blazer has a rear spare tire mount, the one on the swing arm that mounts to the quarter panel and covers the back tailgate when it's latched. . . I've never seen one of these mounted on an S10/Sonoma before, and I think I may actually give it a try. . . Seems like it would be unique, and that's what I'm going for! lol Do you guys think it would work?

dngrous_dime · 06-29-2008, 08:27 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by 06camarodude

Another idea I've been tossing around; The Blazer has a rear spare tire mount, the one on the swing arm that mounts to the quarter panel and covers the back tailgate when it's latched. . . I've never seen one of these mounted on an S10/Sonoma before, and I think I may actually give it a try. . . Seems like it would be unique, and that's what I'm going for! lol Do you guys think it would work?

Pretty sure the tailgates are different, but that doesn't mean it can't be done. It's worth pulling off before you scrap the Blazer. Worst case scenario, it doesn't fit.

06camarodude · 06-30-2008, 03:09 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by dngrous_dime

Pretty sure the tailgates are different, but that doesn't mean it can't be done. It's worth pulling off before you scrap the Blazer. Worst case scenario, it doesn't fit.

Worst case scenario is that I have to do some custom work to make it fit. . . At this point, it looks like I'll be shaving the tailgate handle and relocating it to the inside of the tailgate, and I'll be doing some custom

06-27-2008, 05:31 AM	#1
06camarodude Registered User Age: 20 Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 80 Location: User is: OffLine	Swapping EVERYTHING!! Hello everyone! I know I haven't really been active on here lately, but a combination of school and work have kept me away from my vehicles, apart from DD'ing them, for several months. For those of you who may not know me, my name is Nick, and I'm a 20 year old College student, who happens to also be a die-hard car nut. My primary vehicle, also my pride and joy, is my 1993 Pontiac Formula Firebird with the LT1 and 700R4 trans. My secondary vehicle, the project that never started, is a 1976 Datsun 280Z, which I recently decided to sell. Then there's my 1994 GMC Sonoma, affectionately named "Slonoma," which has been sitting in the driveway, waiting for attention, for nearly a year. The time has come for the truck to see DD duty again. However, it's going to be a long, hard road to get there (no pun intended), but it's going to be worth it. I've never really attempted a project of this magnitude, but I think it should all work out rather well. I suppose I should inform you of my plan. . . The Sonoma has seen better days. It isn't running well, it has several little bugs that combine to form the bane of my existence in the shape of a 4x4 that doesn't run when there's a foot of snow on the ground and you are trying to get home for a nice Christmas with your family. It has suffered front end damage, and it is obvious that the years of Michigan winters and Off-Roading have taken their toll on the old girl, and 209,000 miles on the clock doesn't help her case much either. There are scratches all over, the previous owner did a bad job "Customizing" it, which included silver spray paint and a 2" Body Lift kit. The gas filler neck is held to the bed side with a coat hanger, the passenger door doesn't open from the outside, the driver's door doesn't open from the inside, and there are stains in the seats and mud caked on the dash, it's missing carpet and a side view mirror, and the cab corners are rusted out. Here are a couple of pics of the Sonoma: This is all going to change. Last fall, my Dad bought a 1998 Chevy Blazer 2 Door. It has the 4.3 Vortec, 4WD, Dark Grey cloth interior, Alloy wheels, and it has a very clean engine and trans with less than 100k miles. It WAS a beautiful truck. However, the Blazer has also seen better days. My Dad was side-swiped by a large Semi earlier this year, forcing the Blazer over a curb and into a telephone pole. The truck was totaled, and it has been sitting in the "Doomed" corner of the driveway, along side the Sonoma, ever since it was towed home from the scene of the accident. Here are some pics of the Blazer after the accident: SO, we took a look at the Blazer after the accident, and apparently the only damage done to the engine was the radiator was damaged, and the coolant overflow tank was crushed. These parts have already been located at a local junkyard. I traded Dad my old Camaro for the totaled Blazer, since they were both destined to be sold for scrap anyway. I am selling my secondary vehicle, the Datsun, to pay off a loan my Dad gave me, and the rest of the proceeds from that will go to purchasing the new front clip and cab corners for the Sonoma. We will begin the engine removal in the Blazer first, since the Sonoma still runs and drives (albeit very poorly), and the Blazer's front clip can and will be completely removed for easier access to the engine and transmission. While this is in progress, we will also focus on removing EVERYTHING from the Sonoma. That's right, EVERYTHING. I will be removing the bed, as I will be replacing it with a step-side box I found for $300 at a local scrapyard, the interior will be replaced with that from the Blazer, and the front clip will be removed almost completely as well. The passenger side fender needs to be replaced, and I have already cleaned up a nice used replacement fender and shaved the antenna, all it needs is paint and it will be ready to go on. The front fascia, I.E. the grille, headlights, and bumper, will be removed and replaced with those from a '98+ S10/Blazer, since that is the front end I liked the most. I might go with a '98+ Sonoma/Jimmy, since I really like that style as well, but I'm not quite sure yet. The interior will be pretty nice once it's finished. I thought about it, and there aren't really any differences between the two vehicles as far as wiring goes, there isn't really anything in the Blazer behind the doors that isn't in the Sonoma, except for an extra dome light and a popper for the back window, and I think that would be ideal for shaving the tailgate handle, it could be controlled by the remote for the keyless entry. The Blazer came with a factory alarm, keyless entry, power windows, door locks, the digital compass/thermometer/MPG readout in the overhead console, and a stock CD/AM/FM Stereo with add-on Cassette deck in the center console. It should be really easy to incorporate all of this into the Sonoma, as I'm basically re-wrapping all of the good stuff from the Blazer in a pickup truck's body. The spare dome light from the Blazer can be used to illuminate the bed, or maybe could be split and run to some illuminated side steps or something. This truck is going to take some work, but looking at what I've already got available for the transformation, I think I should be alright. It shouldn't cost more than a couple hundred dollars for the body parts I need, maybe more considering I'm doing a full front fascia swap, but I will still end up with a VERY nice truck, for a fraction of the cost of trying to find one like it somewhere. I think I will be happy with the finished product, and I know I've got the technical know-how and the mechanical ability to pull it off. This should be an interesting project, and I can't wait to show you guys some progress pics! I hope to spend more time on the forums, I have learned a bunch from you guys already, I plan to continue coming here for help and support as I continue to go boldly where I have never gone before. . .
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-27-2008, 05:53 AM	#2
06camarodude Registered User Age: 20 Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 80 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Just for those of you who like to visualize the goal so you know what I'm going for, I'm hoping to take my truck from this: To This: The only things that will be different from the last pic is that I won't have a front license plate (not required in MI), I will not have clear corners, I would rather have the stock corners with the driving/fog lights on the inside of them, and it will sit a little higher. I'm going to be aiming for about stock height, or maybe a 2-3 inch suspension lift. The rims are going to be the stockers from the Blazer, I just need a new set of tires before I can swap them onto the Sonoma. I'll post up the progress pics sometime within the next week or so, I should be getting some work done on the truck later today if the weather stays nice. Last edited by 06camarodude : 06-27-2008 at 05:57 AM.
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-27-2008, 06:17 AM	#3
beandip and chips Age: 20 Join Date: Sep 2006 Posts: 9,456 Location: Cache, OK User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Thats going to take alot of work, keep us updated and pics are a must .
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-27-2008, 06:59 AM	#4
06camarodude Registered User Age: 20 Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 80 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Quote: Originally Posted by beandip Thats going to take alot of work, keep us updated and pics are a must . Believe me, pics will be coming in as the work is done. The only problem I see is that I work nights, sleep during the day, and I'm only really alive during the afternoon/evening, so all of this work is going to be done during the later part of the day. I'll be doing all of it in my driveway, and when it comes time for paint, that will happen in the garage. I just want a decent looking truck that's fun to drive and reliable. I love my Firebird, it's a blast to drive, but it just gets horrible gas mileage (15 around town and about 18-19 on the highway), and I know that I can pull off better mileage with a low miles 4.3 in the truck. I'd rather invest some time and money into this one and have a sweet vehicle to drive year-round rather than drive the hell out of the Firebird and be up a creek without a paddle come winter. The appearance is the last thing on my mind right now, I'm just hoping to have the engine and trans swapped over, all of the wiring swapped, and the truck road-worthy in a month or so. I work as a Security Guard, and my primary assignment is doing rounds of the local school buildings and responding to alarms and such. I do rounds from Midnight to 4am 7 days a week. That's 35 miles a night, works out to 245 miles a week, and I only get a $40 fuel stipend each week. This means I need to somehow pull about 25mpg to come out even. I'm working on getting the fuel stipend increased due to rising fuel costs, but it's obvious that 15mpg is NOT 25mpg. If I can pull in 20mpg average in the combined city/highway driving I do, I'll be happy to eat the difference in cost. Besides the school rounds, I don't really do much else, so I have plenty of time to dedicate to this project. I've already begun to teardown the interior of the Blazer, and so far I've removed the gauge cluster, door panels, stereo headunit, speakers, kick panels, overhead console, and basically everything else I could reach easily with the vehicle parked where it is. The easy part is going to be gutting the Sonoma, since there isn't really anything I need to save, I can just rip most of it out. It's going to the scrapyard eventually anyways. The hard part is going to be carefully removing everything from the Blazer, and remembering where all the wires go, where the screws/bolts/nuts all came from, and how each piece goes in. I am going to strip both vehicles, and while I've got the motor and trans out of the Sonoma, I'll start swapping the wiring from the Blazer into the Sonoma, carefully labeling the wires based on location. After the wires are in, I can start swapping the motor and trans in. Once that's all done, I'll get started with the dash and interior re-assembly. After that's done, I should have the truck ready to start, and I can begin any troubleshooting. I'm going to give myself 2 weeks to get the truck stripped and start swapping the wiring over, one week for the engine/trans swap, and an additional week or two to get the interior and any loose ends squared away. This is very exciting for me, I can't wait to see what the finished product is like! I'll keep you all posted!!
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-27-2008, 07:10 AM	#5
zdanovich Here's my card Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 77 Location: Neptune Beach FL User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! good luck! my 01 s10 was in a bad accident and i slowly pieced it back together too.
	[Reply w/Quote]


S10Forum is the premier S-Series Site on the internet. Registered Users do not see the above ads. Please Register - It's Free!

06-27-2008, 01:34 PM	#6
06camarodude Registered User Age: 20 Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 80 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Quick question, is there any way to install a 3rd door into the Sonoma? I really wouldn't mind having one, especially since I have a dog that's going to be riding behind the seats until she's big enough to ride in the bed (she's only 8 weeks old right now, she won't be fully grown for about a year). I've always thought that would be pretty cool. I guess with the lack of any kind of decent rear seat, though, that would be a pretty impractical modification. Pics will be up later tonight! I've got an appointment to detail a minivan later this afternoon, and a friend needs help bleeding his brakes this evening, but I'm going to be working on cleaning up the Sonoma until then. Hopefully I can have it running so I can move it to the other side of the Blazer (closer to the garage) and turn it around so the front ends are next to each other and there's enough room to open the doors on both. I'll be back on here later to post up some pics. If anyone is in the SE MI area and wants to help on a weekend or something, let me know, I'd be glad to have you! First things first, though, I have to get everything I want to keep out of my Camaro, the junkyard is coming to tow it away at 3:30. I
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-27-2008, 03:19 PM	#7
06camarodude Registered User Age: 20 Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 80 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Well, today was spent cleaning out my Camaro so the junkyard could pick it up, they are going to be here in 15 minutes. The Datsun is out front with a "For Sale" sign in the window, and I got the tires all aired up in the Sonoma. I'll be swapping the '98 Blazer rims onto the Sonoma this evening, and getting the Blazer set up so it can be rolled around the driveway. I also decided it would be easier to swap bodies rather than ripping into the drivetrain, since that in itself would be a massive can of worms I'd rather not open. I'll be stripping both the Blazer and the Sonoma simultaneously, and when the time comes, I'll be getting some pics of both sans bodies. This is going to be a real project, I don't like what I'm getting myself into. . . lol
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-27-2008, 03:53 PM	#8
Speedy2222 I lead the blind Age: 19 Join Date: Aug 2005 Posts: 6,221 Location: Kouts, IN User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! have fun with the 4x4
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-27-2008, 04:04 PM	#9
dngrous_dime Srsly. Age: 28 Join Date: May 2003 Posts: 11,217 Location: Kalkaskama, MI 49646 User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! subscribed, and check out oaktowntrucks.com and greatlakes4x4.com Swapping bodies isn't the greatest idea, the Blazer has a very different frame. You'd need to have custom body mounts made for the bed.
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-27-2008, 04:10 PM	#10
kacy Playin in the mud Age: 29 Join Date: Dec 2005 Posts: 155 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! good luck my 4x4 only gets 20 on the interstate...for all the work your gonna be doing why not drop in a 4.8l ls engine and get better mileage?
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-27-2008, 04:45 PM	#11
06camarodude Registered User Age: 20 Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 80 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Quote: Originally Posted by dngrous_dime subscribed, and check out oaktowntrucks.com and greatlakes4x4.com Swapping bodies isn't the greatest idea, the Blazer has a very different frame. You'd need to have custom body mounts made for the bed. It was my Dad's idea, he swore up and down that the frame was the same, I told him they weren't, but I trusted his 35+ years of auto body experience, but to be honest with you, he was arguing a point that he wasn't even sure of. At this point, I've got two 4.3 Vortec S-Series vehicles in the driveway, both of which have their positive and negative features, and the game plan is still up in the air. Latest development is that it may be more worthwhile to bolt the Blazer back together with parts from the Sonoma, make it driveable and complete, leave the quarter panel alone, replace the front clip, and sell it for a quick couple of grand. It still has a clean title, relatively low miles, and it could be a pretty nice vehicle in the right hands. I could use the profits from that and some money I save up to buy the truck I really want. Which leads me to my next question: Is the increased gas mileage of the 2.2 4 cylinder 5 speed S10 really worth the lack of power? I'm looking for a vehicle that's fun to drive and more fuel efficient than my Firebird. I don't do much hauling, yet the styling of the S10 eXtreme has always been appealing to me, but the fact that I'm used to driving relatively powerful vehicles makes me a little wary to go out and buy a 4 cylinder truck. If anyone could give me a recommendation, I'd really appreciate it!
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-27-2008, 04:48 PM	#12
dngrous_dime Srsly. Age: 28 Join Date: May 2003 Posts: 11,217 Location: Kalkaskama, MI 49646 User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! When I was looking for a truck, the last thing I wanted was a 2.2L auto. But, the price was right. If you want awesome MPG, an S-10 is the last vehicle you should consider, except for maybe an 85 Suburban.
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-27-2008, 05:59 PM	#13
06camarodude Registered User Age: 20 Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 80 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Quote: Originally Posted by dngrous_dime When I was looking for a truck, the last thing I wanted was a 2.2L auto. But, the price was right. If you want awesome MPG, an S-10 is the last vehicle you should consider, except for maybe an 85 Suburban. Well, the reason I was looking at an S10 is because I need a vehicle that is good in inclement weather, particularly Michigan winters. I drove my Sonoma for a winter, and it didn't get stuck at all, even driving down roads covered with over a foot of snow. I was originally considering a 4 Cylinder 5 speed Jeep Wrangler, but those get even worse gas mileage. Do you have any suggestions as to what I could be looking for? I like the S10's because they are good looking trucks, they get better gas mileage than a full size Chevy truck, and they have a decent aftermarket following. Post up any suggestions, ideally I would have a 4WD vehicle that gets 25+ MPG, but I'll settle for 22-24 MPG in the city.
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-27-2008, 06:08 PM	#14
dngrous_dime Srsly. Age: 28 Join Date: May 2003 Posts: 11,217 Location: Kalkaskama, MI 49646 User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Subaru. Actually, I've never had a problem with a 2WD s-10 in snow, so maybe you just suck at driving? (kidding)
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-27-2008, 06:08 PM	#15
rockyroad217 needs a new grille Age: 21 Join Date: Oct 2005 Posts: 4,067 Location: Pine Bluff, AR User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! i have no complaints with my 2.2..its been a pretty reliable motor, besides it likes to nickel and dime you to death..but it has 200,000 miles..so ill settle with that lol
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-27-2008, 07:07 PM	#16
06camarodude Registered User Age: 20 Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 80 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Quote: Originally Posted by dngrous_dime Subaru. Actually, I've never had a problem with a 2WD s-10 in snow, so maybe you just suck at driving? (kidding) It's not that I suck at driving, it's that we routinely get 10-14 inches of snow at a time here in MI, and my job requires that I drive to rather remote areas that aren't plowed regularly, i.e. buildings back in the woods, on dirt roads, Vo-Tech buildings that aren't used during winter break, etc. The snow accumulates, and 2WD doesn't do well in snow that comes over the top of the bumper. I drove a 1994 V6 Camaro 5 speed for 2 winters, and never got it stuck once, I think I'm a decent driver. lol I know you were just kidding. What kind of gas mileage would a subaru pull in, and what does a decent used one go for on average?
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-28-2008, 12:09 AM	#17
dngrous_dime Srsly. Age: 28 Join Date: May 2003 Posts: 11,217 Location: Kalkaskama, MI 49646 User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Quote: Originally Posted by 06camarodude It's not that I suck at driving, it's that we routinely get 10-14 inches of snow at a time here in MI, and my job requires that I drive to rather remote areas that aren't plowed regularly, i.e. buildings back in the woods, on dirt roads, Vo-Tech buildings that aren't used during winter break, etc. The snow accumulates, and 2WD doesn't do well in snow that comes over the top of the bumper. I drove a 1994 V6 Camaro 5 speed for 2 winters, and never got it stuck once, I think I'm a decent driver. lol I know you were just kidding. What kind of gas mileage would a subaru pull in, and what does a decent used one go for on average? I'm not sure what Subies get for mpg. Shoot a PM to SneekyPete on here, he knows his shit about them. And I live up by Traverse City, 10-14" is nothin...
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-28-2008, 05:11 AM	#18
06camarodude Registered User Age: 20 Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 80 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Quote: Originally Posted by dngrous_dime I'm not sure what Subies get for mpg. Shoot a PM to SneekyPete on here, he knows his shit about them. And I live up by Traverse City, 10-14" is nothin... I live about 15 minutes from Ohio state lines, we get 10-14" in a night, and the county road commission is tripping over themselves with no idea what to do. Hell, two weeks after I bought my Sonoma, back when it was roadworthy, I passed 3 county road commission trucks (the big salt trucks) that had gotten themselves stuck in the snow! That takes some serious concentration, to get a truck that big stuck that badly! lol
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-28-2008, 05:17 AM	#19
lowcherrydime truth Age: 26 Join Date: Oct 2005 Posts: 23,235 Location: arkansas User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! i'm lost are you lowering the truck now or something
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-28-2008, 08:48 AM	#20
dngrous_dime Srsly. Age: 28 Join Date: May 2003 Posts: 11,217 Location: Kalkaskama, MI 49646 User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Quote: Originally Posted by 06camarodude I passed 3 county road commission trucks (the big salt trucks) that had gotten themselves stuck in the snow! That takes some serious concentration, to get a truck that big stuck that badly! lol Did you ever notice those are 2WD, and driven by guys that make teenagers look like good drivers.
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-28-2008, 05:10 PM	#21
06camarodude Registered User Age: 20 Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 80 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Quote: Originally Posted by dngrous_dime Did you ever notice those are 2WD, and driven by guys that make teenagers look like good drivers. These aren't the pickups with the spreaders, I'm talking about the huge International's with the dump bed, plow, and salt spreaders on them. . . And I couldn't believe that I cruised right past 3 of them stuck without any problems, in my little POS Sonoma 4.3 with a loud "clunking" noise from the left front suspension, a poorly installed 2" body lift (remnants from prev. owner), and a trans that breaks the tires loose into 3rd gear. Just seems kind of odd to me. . . lol I looked around the forums some more, and found a couple of threads describing the same symptoms my truck has, and I think the FPR or the "Nut Kit" is bad. Looked up the FPR on Advance Auto's website, it's like $35. I'm going to put off the motor swap BS, if I can get the truck running with the motor that's in it, I think I'd rather just repair that. It seems like that would be the easiest option. Plus, the junkyard offered me $400 for the Blazer in the condition it's in now. That would just about pay for a new front clip and some cab corners. Save up a bit more after that, I could get the materials I need to paint the truck, some new rubber, and I'd have a decent looking vehicle! Plus, from what I've heard from people on this site, the 4.3 Vortec/Auto Ext. Cab trucks are able to pull in around 20mpg if you stay out of the gas. I think that with a new FPR & Nut Kit, removing the crappy lift kit, and replacing the driver's side ball joint, I'd have a nice start for a custom 4x4 S10/Sonoma. I just don't think I'll be happy with a 4 cylinder 2WD S10, and I've already got all of the rest of the features I wanted in a truck. I'll keep you posted on my progress, I just have to find the keys to the darn truck before I can get started. . . lol
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-28-2008, 05:18 PM	#22
kacy Playin in the mud Age: 29 Join Date: Dec 2005 Posts: 155 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Quote: Originally Posted by 06camarodude These aren't the pickups with the spreaders, I'm talking about the huge International's with the dump bed, plow, and salt spreaders on them. . . And I couldn't believe that I cruised right past 3 of them stuck without any problems, in my little POS Sonoma 4.3 with a loud "clunking" noise from the left front suspension, a poorly installed 2" body lift (remnants from prev. owner), and a trans that breaks the tires loose into 3rd gear. Just seems kind of odd to me. . . lol I looked around the forums some more, and found a couple of threads describing the same symptoms my truck has, and I think the FPR or the "Nut Kit" is bad. Looked up the FPR on Advance Auto's website, it's like $35. I'm going to put off the motor swap BS, if I can get the truck running with the motor that's in it, I think I'd rather just repair that. It seems like that would be the easiest option. Plus, the junkyard offered me $400 for the Blazer in the condition it's in now. That would just about pay for a new front clip and some cab corners. Save up a bit more after that, I could get the materials I need to paint the truck, some new rubber, and I'd have a decent looking vehicle! Plus, from what I've heard from people on this site, the 4.3 Vortec/Auto Ext. Cab trucks are able to pull in around 20mpg if you stay out of the gas. I think that with a new FPR & Nut Kit, removing the crappy lift kit, and replacing the driver's side ball joint, I'd have a nice start for a custom 4x4 S10/Sonoma. I just don't think I'll be happy with a 4 cylinder 2WD S10, and I've already got all of the rest of the features I wanted in a truck. I'll keep you posted on my progress, I just have to find the keys to the darn truck before I can get started. . . lol hey craigslist is your best friend I got a core support,bumper,bumper cover,grill and both composite headlights for $75 i know I got a hell of a deal but still.Got a p/s fender from a local junkyard for $60 just keep your eyes open.
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-28-2008, 07:20 PM	#23
dngrous_dime Srsly. Age: 28 Join Date: May 2003 Posts: 11,217 Location: Kalkaskama, MI 49646 User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Quote: Originally Posted by 06camarodude These aren't the pickups with the spreaders, I'm talking about the huge International's with the dump bed, plow, and salt spreaders on them. . . Yeah, I'm pretty sure most of those are 2WD.
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-29-2008, 06:07 PM	#24
06camarodude Registered User Age: 20 Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 80 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Quote: Originally Posted by dngrous_dime Yeah, I'm pretty sure most of those are 2WD. Oh, that makes it a little less impressive then, I guess. lol
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-29-2008, 06:17 PM	#25
06camarodude Registered User Age: 20 Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 80 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Quote: Originally Posted by kacy hey craigslist is your best friend I got a core support,bumper,bumper cover,grill and both composite headlights for $75 i know I got a hell of a deal but still.Got a p/s fender from a local junkyard for $60 just keep your eyes open. I priced out everything on ebay, and I already have the fender I need. The total comes to about $450 for everything I'll need for the S10 front end swap, including headlights, turn signals, grille, core support, and a sweet looking brush guard. I should be ordering everything but the brush guard after I get the truck running. This leads me to my next question: Is the transmission from the Blazer a direct swap for the one in the Sonoma? The Sonoma has always shifted really hard, breaking the tires loose into 2nd AND 3rd gear, and I'd really just like to have it driving like it's supposed to. I'm also going to need to fix an exhaust leak, because the truck sounds like an old clunker when it's running. It has a new muffler, but the donut gasket needs replacing, and I would like to try an aftermarket exhaust setup out on this one. Any suggestions?
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-29-2008, 07:55 PM	#26
06camarodude Registered User Age: 20 Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 80 Location: User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Another idea I've been tossing around; The Blazer has a rear spare tire mount, the one on the swing arm that mounts to the quarter panel and covers the back tailgate when it's latched. . . I've never seen one of these mounted on an S10/Sonoma before, and I think I may actually give it a try. . . Seems like it would be unique, and that's what I'm going for! lol Do you guys think it would work?
	[Reply w/Quote]

06-29-2008, 08:27 PM	#27
dngrous_dime Srsly. Age: 28 Join Date: May 2003 Posts: 11,217 Location: Kalkaskama, MI 49646 User is: OffLine	Re: Swapping EVERYTHING!! Quote: Originally Posted by 06camarodude Another idea I've been tossing around; The Blazer has a rear spare tire mount, the one on the swing arm that mounts to the quarter panel and covers the back tailgate when it's latched. . . I've never seen one of these mounted on an S10/Sonoma before, and I think I may actually give it a try. . . Seems like it would be unique, and that's what I'm going for! lol Do you guys think it would work? Pretty sure the tailgates are different, but that doesn't mean it can't be done. It's worth pulling off before you scrap the Blazer. Worst case scenario, it doesn't fit.
	[Reply w/Quote]