RARE 1997 Chevy Tahoe LT 2dr. 4x4 LT w/barn doors and 120K miles EXCELLENT

1997 Chevrolet Tahoe LT Description

Here's a chance to own a rare and exquisite 1997 Chevy Tahoe 2dr. 4x4. These are fairly rare as the ratio of these 2 doors built compared to the 4 door model is very modest. Many of these were customized, off-roaded to death or just simply rotted out, leaving very few true survivors. These were known as Blazers until 1995 when the Tahoe name prevailed, it carried on until 1999 as the Tahoe 2 door and with the demise of the Bronco in 1996, it was left as the only full size 2 door sport ute sold in the US. This one is somewhat more desirable as a rear barn door model in lieu of the cumbersome rear hatch and tailgate setup. Personally, I like them both and see the trials and tribulations of both models.
I bought this one for myself, and I did a very minor reconditioning as it was already excellent as it was. It was apparently owned by a senior citizen and not driven much in the last several years. I have always loved the look of these and the 96-99 models with the Vortec engines are my personal favorite.
I will do a pseudo-virtual walkaround and describe it as I know it, as I have driven it several hundred miles.
ExteriorAbsolutely accident free and 99% rust free, there is a small spot under the battery where a previous battery puked its sulfuric contents which rotted a small hole in the inner fender. It is very insignificant and affects nothing adversely. I had the roof repainted as the clear coat was peeling pretty bad. It was professionally done and looks great, I suspect the hood was re-cleared at some point but it too looks very good. All of the other paint, grill, lenses and trim are 100% original and in very good condition. some of the plastic coating on the body molding trim is flaking and there a two small dings on the drivers rear fender molding and one ding in the hood. None of this is horrible and from ten feet away it looks brand new. All of the glass is very nice, bumpers are straight, and the black trim is very good. I would rate the exterior a 8 out of 10
InteriorI had the drivers leather seat repaired and a new headliner installed. All of the other interior pieces are original. The carpet is clean and near perfect, the rear seat is untouched. The dash, console, side panels and door panels are all perfect except for some flaws in the velour drivers door panel trim (pictured) and one very small red stain in the rear floor area, almost undetectable. It also has the rear headrests in the matching original storage bags (pictured). The interior smells like a new car thanks to the headliner and seat repair. The stereo sounds good, all power accessories work perfect, the AC is cold and the heat is hot. No squeaks or rattles, very comfortable, feels like a brand newTahoe. I would rate the interior a 9 out of 10
MechanicalThe 5.7 Vortec engine purrs like a kitten, has great power for it's day and the transmission shifts perfect. The steering is tight and straight, the brakes are strong and true with no fade or shimmy. It really does drive like brand new. No leaks, squeaks or and deficits of any kind. The 4x4 is push button and works perfect. There isn't any one thing I can think of to be done to this Tahoe. I had a new AC compressor installed, properly, with a new orifice tube and evacuated correctly (I'm an HVAC tech here in Florida). I would have no reservations about driving it to Alaska exactly as it is. I would rate it's mechanical condition at a 10 out of 10.
OverallI bought this Tahoe to satisfy my own personal passion for these trucks. It is a fantastic example and I consider myself lucky to have it. I added period correct Z-71 Tahoe wheels (original GM) with LT 265/75R16 BR Goodrich All Terrain KO tires. I did whatever cosmetics necessary to make it as presentable as possible but also preserving it's originality. This one has a perfect Autocheck scoring a 53 out of 57. It was obviously well cared for before I got it, now, it's even better. It looks great, drives great, and it's just one of those cars that feels "right". Overall I would rate it a 9 out of 10
With all of that said, I know what I have. I placed a reasonable reserve on this based on what others are selling for. I encourage you to ask all questions and I will answer them as honestly as possible. I am a devout car guy and have been since age 4. This Tahoe is in my top 3 favorites. I am not forced to sell it but I have realized that I just won't use it much as I have a couple of other cars that already don't get used much. I would love to see it go to a great home as it is a great truck. If I don't get my price, I have no problem keeping it, however, I'm a reasonable person as well.
I have no problem storing it until pickup as long as the balance is paid in full within 7 days. I can pick up the winning bidder at Tampa Airport at your convenience. I have described this truck exactly as I have gotten to know it. I have complete faith in it's condition and ability but it is possible I overlooked a squeaky door hinge or some other minor problem so please understand, it's celebrating it's 20th anniversary as I type this so don't expect showroom new perfection.
My name is Jason and I can be contacted at 9417200300, text messages are preferred as I tend to stay pretty busy and that will provide you with the quickest response to questions.
Good Luck, Happy Bidding and God Bless the USA