[dknape]

This is my first attempt at posting my problems with my Blazer.

I have a '93 Chevy Blazer 4x4 w/ 4.3-L Vortec engine. I have had the truck since 69k miles. It is now at 140k miles.

Here are my symtpoms:
- Takes a long time for engine to start when cold, starts almost right up when hot/warm.
- Idles very rough
- Truck used to have "umph" when driving down the interstate, now when pressing it to the metal, I stay at same speed or slow down. (at least it seems this way)
- When running and sitting still on concrete, the concrete below the tailpipe exhaust will turn very black.
- When sitting still, there is a very strong fuel smell.
- Fuel milage is HORRIBLE. I get about 200 miles p/ tank right now.

I thought this might have been related to the EGR valve. I had it cleaned (it was very full of carbon build up). After having it cleaned, it started up quickly for about the next 4 or 5 starts. Now it is back to it's own horrible running self. :-(

This all started when my father in law helped me "tune-up" my vehicle 6 months ago. BTW, I am not a mechanic. He had me put 2 things of fuel injector cleaner into the fuel tank during the "tune-up". I informed him that I had an empty tank of fuel. He said, no problem. We did it anyways. He rev'd the engine from under the hood and blew out alot of black smoke (carbon???) from the tailpipe.

This is the only thing I can think of. Ever since this event, it has run horrible. I at first thought we had the plugs on wrong. Since then, we have replaced the starter, plugs, wires, and timed the vehicle.

I purchased a Fuel Injector from O'Reilly Auto Parts yesterday for $270.00. I did not purchase the nut kit I am seeing mentioned on here. Is this a problem?

Since purchasing the vehicle, I have not ever replaced the O2 sensor. Do you think this is part of my problem?

I am VERY low on funds right now and am getting ready for a 1,200-mile move on the 17th of this month and want to make sure that my truck makes it to my destination AND hopefully gets better gas mileage.

Any help is GREATLY appreciated.