I have a 2001 2dr Blazer LS, I got it around 7 months ago and I want to keep it running as long as I can. I just had my heater core go and had to pay 800 dollars to get it replaced at a local shop. This got me thinking, what other things should I look at? Im looking to make a list of things that I should start going through and checking/replacing and an idea of where to start, so any input would be great! My other issue is that I think I might have a coolant leak. It always seems low and Ive had to fill it 5 or 6 times since I got it. I filled it when I changed the oil yesterday and Im going to watch it to see if im losing it but where would it be leaking?

 

On the top of any list should be a replacement of the lower-intake manifold (LIM) gaskets. These are known to fail catastrophically dumping coolant into the oil pan and ruining the bearings.

After that these come to mind:

• remote oil cooler lines*
• front end components, especially the idler arm
• front wheel hubs/beaings
• all fluids should be replaced (even the power steering)*
• the underhood vacuum hoses (they will rot and mess up your 4wd and HVAC)
• worn or stuck brake caliper pins

For the items with the asterisk:
remote cooler lines: these can be more an an annoyance but on my '92 I did have the o-ring on the cooler lines to engine block adapter fail causing a big leak.
automatic transmission fluid: some people will be hesitant to change that fluid as they will claim it will dissolve the gunk that is supplying the friction to the 3/4 clutch plates. I would contend that replacing the fluid is only illuminating a problem that is already there.

 

Thank you for the answer! I forgot to mention I already had the hoses done as the 4wd didnt work when I got it.

 

Are you referring to the vacuum hoses? It is amazing how such small things can mess up systems so easily!

I guess I could have added to the list replacing the water pump. I'm considering doing that as preventative maintenance. I'll be using an AC-Delco part to do it. My plan is the keep mine for another 3 to 5 years so I'm comfortable doing such maintenance.