I removed the front plastic skid plate from my recently
purchased 98 4WD Blazer. I wanted to get a look at
my suspension as I bought new sway bar bushings.

What a wonderful view and better access to what I need.

The down side, the whole front of the lower motor and anything
close by is covered with caked on oil and dirt/mud. including
the remote oil filter. I cant tell where it's coming from until I clean
it up. The mosquito's were bad so I'll get up in the morning
with a power washer and related tools to get it clean.

What are the common leak points for something with 145000 miles.
I've never saw anything on the drive way, but with that plastic
skid plate, I wouldn't.

Just venting...

 

After cleaning, check that all the oil pan bolts are present, especially the front two.

I think that '98 models had the plastic front cover along with the crank sensor; both prone to leaking oil. Trouble is to replace the plastic cover requires ALOT of work as the front differential prevents the oil pan removal...which is required to get to the gaskets.

Another oil leak area is the rear main seal. Which is also ALOT of work as the transfer case and transmission have to be dropped.

The remote oil filter lines also are prone to leaking and required new seals/gaskets at the joints. Much easier to replace. I think most just replace the lines as well.

Overall the Blazer is a very reliable vehicle, but does have it quirks.

 

Weather was good so I took some more time and replaced the front
sway bar bushings, 4WD vacuum actuator, cable & switch.

Good news ! 4WD works now.

Now I have to drive it to look for leaks.