1973 Blazer Build/Resto... Input please!

[Keyblazer]

I have owned this '73 Blazer for about 7 years, and she has been stored away, driven little, but now its coming time to give her some TLC.

Looking forward to some constructive, experienced advice, and opinions!

This is how she was when I bought her.


Very little history, and can only go on what I see and feel, so I just spent some time looking at what I have and trying to figure out a direction/budget.

FYI: The dumb visor/shade is gone already.

Overview of Body condition...

Seems like it is CA/AZ vehicle... so for her 42 years, she is not bad!
Paint is toast, so I have to plan/budget for that.
A quick sand on front fender and a rear quarter, tells me she was always been black, and maybe one repaint.

Drivers side fender.


Drivers side rear quarter.


Front edge of hood rusted thru maybe due to chrome panel that was mounted..
Replace with OEM quality part?


Both front fenders look good enough to keep, but pass side is different color...


Both doors have rust bubbles on lower edge and extra mirror holes.
Replace with OEM quality part?


Base of tailgate is rusted thru in the center.


Rear bumper is slightly bent, and tow hitch is an ugly mess.

Pulled up the drivers and passengers carpet... which were glued down and was greeted by this similar sight.


Replacement panel will be needed

Rockers have a diamond plate cover, so I will have to remove them to see. No sign of rust looking underneath... so far!

More post to come in a few mins.