Hey guys,

I am new to the forum and I need some help. My 97 Blazer with the 4.3 is badly leaking from a freeze plug. I can't see it, but it is the one near the power steering pump at the front of the driver's side of the motor. It is near the motor mount.

What is the best way to replace the plug? Do I need to remove the axle? Can I lift the motor enough to get access to the plug? Any suggestions and/or tips would be great!

Thanks guys,

Joe

 

Here's the steps, like them or not. You're going to have to pull the exhaust manifold and anything else that is in the way of accessing (straight access) the freeze plug. The best way to go about it would be to pull the inner fender out on the drivers side. Disconnect and remove the steering shaft. Spray ALL bolts that hold the exhaust manifolds on with penetrating oil LONG before attempting this (but don't run the engine once you have sprayed them) - this includes the 3 bolts that mount the y-pipe to the exhaust manifold as well as the EGR pipe and air injection pipe connections. Remove the y-pipe from the exhaust manifold along with the EGR pipe and air injection pipe. Then remove the manifold. You may have to pull the motor mount pins and jack the motor slightly to get straight on access to the freeze plugs, but this will get you the most room. While you've got everything off, replace ALL of the freeze plugs on that side of the engine! Get new gaskets and donut for the exhaust manifold connections and put everything back together reverse of the install.

To remove the old freeze plugs, just hit 'em on one side with a punch or screw driver to twist them, then grab ahold with a set of pliers and pull it out. Clean up the sealing surfaces and press the new one in. To do this, either get the proper driver tool or get a socket (1/2" drive atleast) and an extension to pound on. Drive them in until the lip is flush with the rest of the block in that area and you're done.

Good Luck and remember to take pictures along the way to share with the rest of us!

 

Thanks for the quick and helpful reply!
I'll be sure to take pictures of the whole process. I probably won't get to the Blazer until after the 1st of the year, but I'll get to it. Thanks again for the help!!

Joe

 

What is the best way to disconnect and remove the steering shaft???

 

There is a bolt next to the firewall and three bolts holding the steering box to the frame. Take those 4 bolts out and the box slides forward, then the shaft slides out of the column and can be moved out of the way.