Hello. I am new here and this is my first post, but I have been looking on here for a couple of weeks. My son has a 1997 blazer 4.3 with an automatic trans with a console shifter. He got in it last christmas afternoon and it wouldn't start. It would crank, but not start. Dash lights wouldn't come on, the key would not turn all the way off sometimes, and a few other symptoms. I replaced the ignition switch and locking cylinder and everything worked like it should. About two weeks ago the SES light came on and it went in to limp mode. I had my son take it to a local mechanic friend to pull the codes, and he told me to take it to a transmission shop. I don't know what the codes were. He said the codes point to the shift solenoids. Also the key won't turn all the way back to the lock position again. I took the column apart to push the plunger to get the key out, but I'm not sure if it is the solenoids or not. Does anyone know how I can test the solenoids myself or have an idea of what else it might be. The problem is intermitent, but the trans is stuck in 3rd gear most of the time. I have searched the forum, but haven't seen any post for this problem that doesn't point to the ignition switch. Thanks.

 

first off,bad key cylinder. replace it under warranty.


As for the trans,your gonna have to get the codes,so you know exactly what its telling you. as for the solenoids, if they are bad its a easy fix. you do have to drop the pan but once you have the replacements you will see where they are etc. They have little metal clips holding them in. you will figure out how they come off when you look at it.

Pick up a trans filter,gasket,and 5 quarts of dexron fluid. it'll take about 2 hours to complete.

 

Thanks chris015. I'll get the codes later today or tomorrow.

 

I checked the codes today. They all seem to have to do with the trans. Anyway to test the solenoids without climbing under the car. I am disabled and have a hard time getting under a car. The codes are P0740, P0753, P0758, P0785, P1860.

 

First check all of the fuses in both fuse blocks. If they are all OK, on the passenger side of the transmission, there is a round electrical connector. http://www.moveras.com/images/transm..._late_case.jpg Check the connector and make sure it is plugged in all the way, and locked in place. The wires go to all of the electronics inside the transmission.