Suspension Parts for a 1970 Chevy Blazer: A Complete Guide

Restoring or upgrading a 1970 Chevy Blazer often starts under the truck. The suspension system on the first-generation K5 Blazer is rugged but age takes its toll. Whether you're aiming for a showroom-stock ride or building an off-road rig, understanding the specific suspension parts your 70 Chevy Blazer needs is key. This guide covers the major components, from leaf springs to steering linkages, and offers practical advice for choosing and installing the right parts.

Overview of the 1970 Chevy Blazer Suspension System

The 1970 Blazer uses a traditional truck-style suspension. Up front, it has a solid axle with coil springs and a four-link setup. Out back, you'll find leaf springs. The steering is a recirculating ball system with a steering box. The suspension is designed for strength and durability, but parts like bushings, shocks, and springs wear out over time. When replacing suspension parts, it helps to know exactly what fits and what upgrades are possible.

Front Suspension Components

The front axle is a Dana 44 or Corporate 10-bolt (depending on the build date). The coil springs sit between the axle and the frame, with upper and lower control arms locating the axle. Key parts include:

• Coil Springs: These support the vehicle weight and determine ride height. Stock springs offer a soft ride, while heavy-duty or lifted springs increase capacity and height.
• Control Arms: Upper and lower arms with bushings at each end. The bushings wear out and cause looseness. Replace with rubber for stock feel or polyurethane for firmer response.
• Sway Bar: Only some 1970 Blazers came with a front sway bar. It reduces body roll. Aftermarket kits are available.
• Steering Linkage: Includes the pitman arm, center link, tie rods, and drag link. Worn steering components cause play and wandering. Moog and other brands offer direct replacements.
• Shocks: Twin-tube shocks were standard. Upgrade to gas-charged or off-road shocks for better damping.

Rear Suspension Components

The rear uses leaf springs mounted on the axle and frame. Common replacement items include:

• Leaf Springs: These sag over time. Replace with stock-rated springs or add-a-leaf kits for extra load capacity. For lifting, choose new springs with more arch.
• Shock Absorbers: Rear shocks mount between the frame and axle. Extended length shocks are needed if lifting.
• U-Bolts and Spring Plates: When replacing springs, always install new u-bolts and plates for safety.
• Bump Stops: Deteriorated bump stops can let the axle hit the frame. Replace with rubber or polyurethane.

Choosing the Right Suspension Parts

Deciding between stock replacement and upgraded parts depends on your goal. A restoration demands OEM-correct components, while a lifted truck needs specific parts.

Stock vs. Upgraded

If you're keeping the Blazer at factory height, stick with quality stock-type parts. Brands like Moog for steering and AC Delco for shocks are good choices. For a smoother ride, consider gas shocks. If you plan to wheel it, upgraded components like adjustable shocks, greaseable control arm bushings, and a heavy-duty sway bar increase reliability.

Lift Kits and Height

Lifting a 1970 Blazer requires a coordinated set of parts. Lift height is typically 2 to 6 inches. A 4-inch lift is common. It needs longer coil springs or coil spring spacers, lifted leaf springs with blocks, extended brake lines, and a dropped pitman arm to correct steering geometry. For lifts over 4 inches, consider a steering stabilizer. Always check if your lift kit includes all necessary hardware.

Brand Considerations

You don't need to buy the most expensive parts, but cheap components can lead to poor ride and short life. Reputable brands include:

• Rough Country: Budget-friendly lift kits with good warranty.
• Skyjacker: Known for off-road oriented suspension.
• Moog: Reliable steering and suspension parts.
• Bilstein: High-performance shocks.
• Energy Suspension: Polyurethane bushings and bump stops.

Key Components to Replace

When refreshing the suspension, focus on these areas:

Coil Springs and Leaf Springs

Check for sag or broken leaves. Springs settle over years. Replace in pairs. For stock height, OEM replacement coils and leaf packs work. For a lift, choose matched springs. Leaf spring packs often need bushings—replace those too.

Shocks and Struts

The 1970 Blazer has four shock absorbers. Use a shock that fits your height and use. For daily driving, standard twin-tube shocks are fine. For off-road, consider monotube gas shocks like Bilstein 5100. Measure extended and compressed lengths to avoid bottoming out.

Control Arms and Bushings

Worn bushings cause clunks and sloppy steering. Original arms can be reused with new bushings. Or replace the entire arms for convenience. Polyurethane bushings last longer than rubber but transmit more vibration.

Sway Bars and Steering Components

A front sway bar improves handling. If your Blazer didn't have one, aftermarket kits are available. Steering parts like tie rods and drag links should be inspected for play. Replace with heavy-duty versions if you off-road.

Practical Tips for Installation

1. Safety first: Always use jack stands and never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. PB Blaster: Soak rusty bolts and nuts a day before to ease disassembly.
3. Alignment: After suspension work, get a professional alignment. Toe, caster, and camber settings are critical for tire wear and handling.
4. Torque specs: Tighten bolts to factory specifications. Many suspension bolts should be tightened with the vehicle weight on the ground.
5. Break-in: New springs may settle after a few hundred miles. Re-check ride height and torque.

Final Recommendation

For a stock 1970 Chevy Blazer, replace worn bushings, shocks, and steering components with quality OEM-grade parts from Moog or AC Delco. If you want a moderate lift, a 4-inch kit from Rough Country or Skyjacker offers good value. Always invest in a set of Bilstein shocks—they transform ride quality. For the DIYer, take your time and replace hardware. A well-sorted suspension makes the Blazer more enjoyable on pavement and trail alike.

By focusing on the specific needs of the 1970 Chevy Blazer's suspension system, you can confidently choose parts that fit, perform, and last.