98 Blazer leaking coolant

I have a 98 Blazer with a 4.3L with 136K miles leaking anti-freeze as fast as I pour it in. It is coming out on the drivers side towards the front of engine, but on the side towards the bottom of engine. Originally, I would have to add coolant every 2 to 3 weeks. Just before this major leak, it overheated, and I added coolant. As it was filling, I could hear air escaping as I poured the coolant in. Could this be a freeze plug problem? I cannot see any cracks in the block, and I cannot see where the coolant leak is originating from as there are mounting brackets for the power steering assy in the way. Thanks for any help!!

your on the right track there - freeze plug leaking .punch and a hammer works great on the inside edge - on another note it could also be a block heater in place of the freeze plug - its your choice wether to go with a new heater ( if you really need one) or a freeze plug.

Lower intake is common at 100k and the front drivers side right by the AC and above the water pump is common where a water jacket to the intake runs - Add water, use a flashlight, look carefully where the block and intake meet. Also look at the WP and the 2 holes and if the seal goes it could be that.

My '97 dripped coolant off the crankshaft pulley, couldn't see it leaking out of the water pump...replaced the waterpump to solve it. Maybe it can be seen with a mirror and strong light.

I agree with the intake gasket. They are famous for goin out on the 4.3's. I replaced mine at 160k miles, it was leaking under the compressor and at the back of the block. Just about anybody can with any sense and a decent set of tools can replace it. But be patient, it may take a full day or all weekend if you have never done it before.

The first thing your going to have to do is find out exactly where the coolant leak is originating from. If it's not comming from the freeze plug then you need a new set of lower intake manifold gaskets. Easy job, Just time consuming (Pain in the ass). My intake manifold gasket job took about 12 hours to complete (first timer) last weekend.... While I was there I replaced the water pump, all the hose's, thermostat, cleaned the injectors, yada yada yada.....
Good luck and post back with your findings.

87,800 babied miles on her?