Many car enthusiasts longed for the revival of the Chevrolet Blazer. But when Chevrolet reintroduced the off-road-ready pickup truck in 2019, it met a somewhat muted reaction. Understandably, the automotive community still remembers the mechanical issues the model exhibited in the past. However, its subsequent model years have eventually allowed the Blazer to catch up with the industry leaders.
With a growing number of potential buyers seeking vehicles capable of conquering tough terrains effortlessly, the demand for off-road units continues to gain momentum. The Blazer, being a versatile automobile, is well-suited for upgrades that enhance its ability to navigate challenging pathways.
Importance of Off-Road Upgrades
The significance of such enhancements is underscored by several key factors:
Tackling Rough Roads
Off-road upgrades are vital for tackling unpredictable terrains. Highways are not always smooth, and many locations are characterized by muddy and rocky toils. A crossover or an SUV may have been equipped with strong shocks and springs, but these mechanical parts will eventually wear down with years of continuous and demanding use. Breakdowns are bound to happen, so it’s necessary to enhance your Blazer’s ability to navigate rough terrains.
Versatility and Flexibility
Vehicles with 4WD capabilities are no longer limited to tough roads. The perception of these powerful machines has evolved, and off-roadsters are now utilized in a wide range of settings. From family-oriented cars, off-road upgrades have enabled these for use in agricultural settings and related ventures.
In addition, off-road upgrades introduce flexibility to vehicles, alleviating concerns for individuals venturing into rural areas or farms. These upgrades allow automobiles to handle off-roading while maintaining their capabilities on freeways and highways.
Durability
Every vehicle is subject to heavy loads and tough conditions in some situations, but with certain upgrades, you can extend the lifespan of your Blazer and improve its performance in challenging situations.
Damages and destruction often occur when a car is pushed beyond its limits. Reinforcing your Blazer for off-roading ensures it can handle demanding conditions and continue to serve you reliably.
Recommended Parts to Upgrade
If you are looking to use your Chevy Blazer for off-roading purposes, you will have to modify or upgrade certain parts. This will allow you to tackle grueling challenges on the road. Here are some key parts to consider upgrading.
Tires and Wheels
Upgrading a vehicle to be off-road-ready usually starts with a set of tires. While some modern crossovers and SUVs may have big wheels, this does not mean they are equipped with the components for long and taxing routes. The grip is the key factor here, so no matter how big the tires are, they are ineffective without solid traction.
Equipping your Blazer with upgraded rubber with reinforced sidewalls, deep tread depths, and large tread blocks provides the necessary bite to navigate difficult terrains. Reinforcing the wheels with sturdy steel rims ensures maximum stability and durability.
Body Under Armor
Some drivers ignore the hazards of difficult routes. To most, getting a lift and having a set of big tires and wheels are enough to withstand the difficult terrain, but the body frame and underbelly, especially the oil pan, still remain vulnerable to damage from rocks and sharp objects.
Installing a skid plate under your Chevy Blazer will offer vital protection for the undercarriage. A heavy steel skid plate with bolt head protectors will make a difference when you wander off into tough roads.
Body and Suspension Lift Kits
Increasing a vehicle’s ground clearance is essential for off-roading. The actual lift height depends on the owner’s personal preference and judgment. The higher the lift, the higher the ground clearance.
There are a couple of ways to conduct a lift-up. First is using body mount spacers to raise the ride height through the control arms adjustment, allowing for larger tires. However, these don’t significantly increase ground clearance.
Another is using suspension lifts, which offer adjustments relative to the ground clearance. The riding experience may be impacted due to the involvement of the spring installation, but the Blazer will get a much higher lift and improved off-road capability.
Bumper
A bumper serves as the primary line of defense for your Chevy against collisions and accidents. Most drivers are content with their vehicle’s factory-built bumpers, but while these can protect them from low-impact incidents, they are not designed to offer comprehensive defense.
Upgrading to a stronger and more durable bumper can provide enhanced protection and minimize the risk of extensive damage to your Blazer’s body and crucial components. Additionally, an upgraded bumper can offer improved functionality, especially for the installation of features like tow hooks or winch mounts, which can enhance your vehicle’s versatility and off-road capabilities. Furthermore, a visually appealing and well-designed bumper can enhance the overall aesthetics of your Chevy, adding a personalized touch and potentially increasing its resale value.
Bull Bar
The bull bar provides essential front-end protection for off-roading automobiles. Bull bars are often made of steel or aluminum and can vary in design, ranging from simple bars to more complex structures with additional features like mounting points for auxiliary lights or winches.
Most Chevy Blazer owners often forego installing a bull bar on their vehicle to save costs, but it is actually an important investment that complements the bumper’s role in protecting the vehicle’s front end, especially the grille, bumper, and headlights, in case of collisions, animal impacts, or off-road hazards. Aside from being a protective accessory, it can enhance the rugged appearance of your Blazer.
Winch Mounts and Tow Hooks
Off-road adventures can lead to situations where your vehicle gets stuck in mud or deep canals, and there’s no other assistance available, so a winch will come in handy. A winch motor and tow hooks provide a valuable countermeasure to help you escape tight spots in the absence of a fellow off-roader.
Winch motors are valued for their strength, durability, and versatility. They are an essential tool for off-roaders, providing a reliable means of self-recovery and assisting others in challenging terrain. Upgrading your winch and tow hook system will give you more power to pull yourself or others out of a pinch.
Off-Road Joys to Behold
Chevy Blazer upgrades for off-roading offer a compelling opportunity to elevate its capabilities. By upgrading certain parts, your Chevy can become an off-road machine capable of conquering challenging terrains. These upgrades don’t just enhance the vehicle’s performance and safety—they also open up a world of thrilling off-road adventures, making the Chevy Blazer a versatile and exciting choice for enthusiasts seeking to push boundaries.