Not too long ago, this 1972 Chevy K5 Blazer was just another aging, run-of-the-mill SUV. That changed when brothers Tyler and Bryce Adams of Adams Customs got their hands on it. Known for high-end restorations, the company grew from a simple hobby into a full-fledged career built on craftsmanship and attention to detail.
When purchased, the Arizona-sourced K5 still wore its original sun-faded paint, complete with scattered rust and body damage. Even so, it proved to be the perfect canvas for a ground-up rebuild. The rig was disassembled, refreshed, and reimagined to better-than-new standards. The end result is a K5 that nails the balance between classic styling and modern performance.
LS3 V8, 4L80E Transmission, Many Underhood Mods
The K5’s original 350 V8 and TH350 automatic are gone, replaced by a GM LS3 430HP Connect & Cruise Crate Powertrain System backed by a 6L80E six-speed automatic. The aluminum LS3 delivers 430 horsepower and 424 pound-feet of torque, mounted on a Dirty Dingo Motorsports crossmember and dressed with a Vintage Air Front Runner accessory drive and Holley valve covers that conceal the coil packs. Fuel comes from a relocated Boyd Welding 19-gallon tank, accessed through a hidden filler neck behind the driver-side LED taillight. Adams Customs engineered the taillight housing with a hinge and latch so the assembly swings open for clean, discreet access.
A custom polished 3-inch dual exhaust with Borla mufflers and electric cutouts handles spent gases, while cooling duties are managed by a Summit Racing aluminum radiator, GM dual electric fans, and a custom shroud. The engine bay has been shaved and refined, with hidden wiring that helps keep it uncluttered. Out back, the 6L80E feeds a fully rebuilt NP205 transfer case through an Advance Adapters adapter, all supported by a custom Adams Customs-built crossmember.
Dana 44, GM 12-Bolt, Disc Brakes, And More
Up front, the K5 rides on a rebuilt Dana 44 with Warn Premium manual locking hubs, while a rebuilt 12-bolt with a limited-slip differential anchors the rear. Both axles are refreshed and feature disc brakes, backed by a Wilwood master cylinder and a hydroboost conversion. Both axles are fitted with 3.73:1 gears.
To ensure the steering system is up to the task, it has been upgraded with a variety of parts, including a quick-ratio Borgeson power steering box and an Offroad Design pitman arm.
33s And A 3-Inch Lift
The K5 rolls on 33-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A K03 tires wrapped around 17×9-inch Vision Wheel Cheyenne wheels. Skyjacker 3-inch Softride leaf springs create the clearance needed for the 33s, while Bilstein shocks help keep the ride controlled.
Vintage Style, Modern Polish
The SUV’s frame, body tub, and doors were stripped to bare metal and fully reworked. Fresh sheetmetal includes a new front clip, rockers, and tailgate, while all-new glass, rubber moldings, exterior trim, and bumpers round out the new parts. The eye catching finish is courtesy of Sherwin-Williams Omaha Orange and Linen White, giving the classic K5 a mix of vintage style and modern polish.
Custom Interior
Inside the cab, Raptor Liner and Kilmat sound-deadening material create a quieter, more refined ride. The custom interior features custom door panels, a matching tailgate panel, tailored seats, and precision-cut carpet, all complemented by Dakota Digital gauges. Other interior modifications include a Vintage Air climate control system, Ididit tilt steering column, Classic Car Stereos audio head unit, and a Billet Specialties steering wheel.
Built As A Tribute
This incredible K5 came together in roughly four months, built as a tribute to the owner’s late wife. She had always wanted a K5 but passed away before owning one, so he commissioned the build to honor her memory.
Photos by Adams Customs and Ken Brubaker
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