Have been thinking about replacing my totaled Malibu with an S-10. Would like to get an early 90's (budget reasons) with an extended cab and short or standard bed and don't need 4WD. What's the best engine? (4 or 6). Is automatic a good idea or not? Are the 5 speeds OK? Any hidden flaws for this truck style? Would like some unbiased input. Your opinions are appreciated as always.

 

The 2.2L tended to be a little bit of a problem child. I'd definatley go with the 4.3L. Having driven both on a regular basis, I know for sure which I prefer. The 2.2L is so sluggish.

The biggest thing you have to watch out for in an S10 that old is the transmission. Drive it until it gets hot; 20 miles or so. Make sure it doesn't slip or shake. You have to really watch for it because the 4l60's and 700r4's have very subtle slips.

A manual transmission would probably be the better way to go if you want relaibility. You'll probably have to replace the clutch just because people generally just tolerate a worn out clutch instead of fixing it.

 

I agree, the 2.2L's were sloppy, unreliable engines. however, watch out for what type 4.3L you get if you looking for good power. there were two available engines in the early 90's for the standard s10, the tbi and the cpi. both were very dependable, however the cpi cranks out an extra 25 horses, 200hp all total, giving it equal hp to the 350 V8 full size truck motor, till the 96 models anyway. and he's right about the auto tranny's, they may be built like a rock, but after about 200,000 miles they tend to start slippin, especially if it was used for towing. if you do find a high mileage s10 like that, some slip fix tranny fluid will help alot. and keep your foot out the gas, if you can resist, n it should do fine.

 

My '89 S10 has just rolled over 215k miles. The auto transmission once warm is the smoothest I've owned on any car, including my current 88k miles Mercedes 126 and my former Mercs, Jags, Porsches, Nissans, Audis, Vauxhalls......................

 

I can't say the same. I'm losing my transmission right now at 88k.
It keeps burping a P1870.

 

I would agree go 4.3 if possible my s10's both turned 100k with little issues, nothing major, the truck is still "in the family"

 

when i get my 305 rebuilt i will stick it back in my 89 silverado.. and when i can afford this 86 s-10 2x2 im going to take my 283 and go through it and put a V8 and a corvette 5 speed tranny behind the built 283