So i picked up an 87' S10 Blazer 4x4 with a 2.8L rather cheap. The Truck runs and drives. Frame solid yada yada... Trans shift good and 4x4 works.

I started tearing into the steering last night as it need a bit of work.
Need's a new intermediate shaft between the steering gearbox and column... Also New steering center link, tie rods, pitman arm etc. I think the box is still good(don't know how to check the steering box itself.
BUT I am having an issue looking for the center link for a 4x4.... Does anyone know if it is the same for the 2x4??

Also it leaks oil pretty good. It comes down the back side of the engine and drips onto the cross member and exhaust right before the transmission. I am replacing the valve cover gaskets in hopes that is all it is from. It maintains solid oil pressure while idle hot and cold conditions....
Looking for any suggestions on the truck as i am only a backyard mechanic.
If you have other suggestions that i should look into please let me know.

Thanks,
Josh

 

You should not have to replace the center link on a 87 4x4 blazer. The joints that wear out are on the idler arm and pitman arm and the center link should just be solid metal with no joints on the 4x4s.


As for the oil running down the back of the engine it could be a few things. Valve cover gaskets like you said or it could be intake gasket, oil pressure sending unit, or maybe even the distributor gasket leaking. Its best to just take a flash light and try to find the leak if you are able to.