Manual locking hubs, T-case levers, and 'stripper' 4×4s

摘要

I like things simple when it comes to 4×4s. For example, I'm drawn to the base model of a truck or SUV. I can't help it. This started back in 1971 when I saw my uncle's brand-new, mostly base '72 Chevy K5 Blazer. It was love at first sight. There were other notable events that reinforced my attitude toward simplicity. For example, back in 2000, I was at a GM event in Wyoming to see the then - new Chevy Suburban and Tahoe. I will never forget that event because one of the vehicles GM brought was a "stripper" 2500-Series Suburban 4×4. When it came time to choose a vehicle to drive, I snatched that one up. Not that anyone else wanted the de-optioned SUV. It was amazing. Vinyl seats, vinyl floor coverings, manual crank windows, and basic steel wheels. It did have a standard 6.0L V-8, A/C, and swing-open rear doors, and as a bonus the sticker price was darn affordable at just a hair over $30K.