The Trailblazer SS and the Saab 9.7x Aero also have the same engine and platform if you are having trouble finding a trailblazer. Although I think the chassis is lower a bit.
They come one inch lower than typical models. Stock springs from any other TB/Envoy or the brethen will work and get you to stock height.
TBSS has been lifted before...it comes lowered from the factory and has airbags in the rear...you will also need wheel spacers to clear the upper balljoint with a taller all terrain tire...and yes you can run the 17's with TBSS brakes
I does come with a locker in the rear...
transmission is known to have issues on the street... so offroad could be questionable
rockers are know for paint chipping issues so protection is advisable
TBSS does not come with roof rack from the factory so you have drill the roof
On the other hand...395hp...four snow tires...loads of fun when the weather turns :smiley_drive:
The spacers are needed for anything over 30.5 tires unless you get aftermarket 17's and then you can avoid spacers for up to about a 32 inch tire I believe.
I helped put a lift on an SS a couple months back. Looked great and worked well. You can turn the bag sensors for about 2 inches of lift or you can simply swap to stock springs or tahoe z71 springs.
Not a locker. All SS have G86 limited slips in the rear. Do have 4.10 gears which are nice.
The transmissions are great if you keep em cool. $60 bucks for a cooler.
There are skidplates available from MDB Fab, as well as custom bumpers. Highly recommend protecting the radiator since it sits so low.
Not an SS, but had the SS rear with a real locker and the matching front diff for the lower gears.
I would loved to have built an SS, but the lack of low range killed that for my needs. Plus my 300 HP is really enough for what the truck does.