Three problems related to ignition have been reported for the 1997 Chevrolet S10. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I had a p0300 code which is a random misfire code after replacing all the parts that I was told that give this code I still had the problem. After doing some in depth research I found that gm had purchased defective distributor drive gears that were not hardened properly causing them to wear out. The knock sensor would pick up this wear and the computer would retard the timing and cause crossfire or a spark jump that caused the distributor cap to prematurely burn out. Gm new about this problem and never did a recall on this. I spent a lot of money on parts I didn't need if I would have known what the root cause of the problem was this. Information needs to get out to thousands of people that are chasing this p0300 code on gm vehicles. My vehicle is a 97 S10 4. 3 vortec. When the computer kicks this code out the engine skips off idle and the vehicle shakes and stumbles. After replacing the distributor that had a new drive gear the vehicle runs like new again and no codes are set.
While driving at any speed and without warning vehicle would suddenly lose power and stall. Dealer has been contacted. Please provide any further information.
Approx 5min of driving at residential speeds engine would cut in and out as if running out of gas. The fuel gauge registered obout 1/3rd full. First trip to the dealer found two trouble codes: sp0440 & p0171. Was told to tighten gas cap and return if proble persists. With full tank of gas and at highway speeds engine cut out and back in causing quite a jolt. Problem continued especially when accelerating. Back to dealer (one week after 1st visit) to find out fuel pump needs replacing. Four months out of warranty, but low mileage, so I complained to dealer. "goodwill" replacement by mfg although out $220 for 2 trips into dealer for problem solving.