Our gas guage works fine until about 1/4 tank. It thens will fluctulate between empty and 1/2 mainly when sitting and idling. We have been using trip counter afraid of a problem. What are the possible solutions with cost estimates (dealer done, not a mechanic)
Second problem is an annoying squeaky noise from sepentine belt area. Oil, water and electrical guages seem to be working fine.
AC and defrost are fine. Again solution with cost. Thanks in advance
99 chevy blazer with 4.3 vortex.

 

Welcome to the site.

Fuel gauge needs to be replaced. Unfortunately it is part of the fuel pump assembly and costs rought $280-$350. Depends on where you go. Figure about 2-3 hours labor at your local labor rate. Call the dealer and ask them how much it would cost. They will say it depends on the pump unit you have (and it does), however they should be albe to give oyu a non-binding estimate ont eh phone. Not like this is the first one they will have replaced. Call other shops in your area to see what they will charge. About the only place your going to save costs is in labor rates.

Squeking belt.
I gather it squeks all teh time, not just when it is raining out. You can spray it with "Belt Dressing", sold at your local autoparts store, and yes, it is called belt dressing. Replace the belt if it has cracks on the ridged side, not the smooth side.
Easy to replace, belt is $20-30 and labor should be like $20. The belt runs all your accessories, power steering (makes turning easy), water pump (keeps the engine cool and provides heat to the cab), alternator (provides electric power for the batttery, radio, lights, engine, DVD player, etc). Pretty important piece. Replace them when the squell is a good rule of thumb.

 

I should clarify the squeak. The belt was replaced already within the year before a vacation trip. I think it is one of the pulleys. It is worst in cold weather and quieter the longer it runs.

 

make sure the belt(s) are tensioned properly and that any bushings for belt-driven equipment are good.

an alternative to belt dressing, if you can easily reach the belt: with the engine running, carefully press some sandpaper on the inside of the belt until it is roughed up a bit. should help it grab the pulleys better. of course, this is a temporary fix and the belt(s) should be replaced.