I'm definitely not giving up the Isuzu, but ...

I just looked at a 1978 Blazer with a Chalet camper on top. Interestingly, the Blazer is full time 4wd (didn't know they made any blazers like that) but has a locking center diff and a low range.

It has a 400 CID engine and an automatic tranny, both of which seem to be in great shape.

Any thoughts on this? I want this vehicle for some light wheeling/serious camping, and it seems like the perfect mix.

The chalet camper is a bit taller than I would like (i.e. higher center of gravity), but at least it has some room. I can see myself wheeling it down moderate roads. Mostly this vehicle has the profile of a K5 Blazer, but with about 2 feet more of overhang in back(PATHETIC departure angle -- definitely won't be doing fins and things in it).

The camper is a pop-up, but it is about a foot taller with the top down than the Four Wheel campers I've been looking at. I realize this vehicle will never be hardcore, but I'm stoked about the idea of having a camper and being able to find a nice spot on a moderate road and instead of climbing out and setting up a tent just popping up the top and turning on the furnace.

With that 400 CID engine, do you think it would be a good tow vehicle for my Passport? It's empty weight is 6,700 lbs -- which definitely makes it heavier than the passport. And it's probably just a little longer, perhaps not in wheelbase but in total vehicle length.