One problem related to blown head gasket has been reported for the 1996 Chevrolet S10. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
At 61,000 miles the head gasket blew. At the time there was no recall for this item. I called the dealer and was informed that this repair would be over $900. With no choice at hand, I did the repair myself. I completed the job in about 14 hours, plus the expenses of the parts. I didn't save my receipts because I didn't have any reason to believe I would need them. However, I did save the head gasket. Some months later, I received a letter from Chevrolet stating this was a factory defect and would be reimbursed for the work. I proceed to contacted the dealer and the Chevrolet customer assistance center who issued me a case # of 06762207. They informed me that I would receive nothing without a receipt. Any assistance in this matter that you may be able to provide will be greatly appreciated.