We have two Blazers, a '95 and a '97. I'm new to auto maintenance but I purchased a Haynes manual and have enough confidence to attempt basic items - like changing the air filter.

I changed the air filter in our '95, like it said in the Haynes manual (though wolfox posted a better way to get extra room). I opened the hood in the '97 Blazer and was surprised to see that things look quite a bit different. The air filter housing does not have two clips, as the Haynes manual suggests. In fact, the engine compartment components look very much like the picture of a 4 cylinder vortec in the Haynes manual :nono:

Something is wrong here. This manual lacks a great deal of detail about air filter replacement. I believe this to be a CPI (central-port-injection) design and the Haynes manual clearly states it should have two clips and look just like our '95 Blazer.

Appreciate any comments about replacing an air filter in a '97 as well as comments about a more helpful manual for braindead newbies.

Thanks,
-- recurve

A lot of guys will pruchase both a Haynes AND a Chilton's manual. This allows overlapping data and a good back-up sorce of info. Also, one manual will contain data that the other may completely omit. As they say, check and double-check - it does not hurt to do your homework first. Then, baring that - ask the right questions. I am not certain, because I never looked under the hood of a '97 - but I *think* there are a set of screws that hold the upper part of the cover to the lower. The upper half should be moved aside, and then you have access to the lower tray and filter. Someone please back me up on this?

that describes my 97

A lot of guys will pruchase both a Haynes AND a Chilton's manual. This allows overlapping data and a good back-up sorce of info. Also, one manual will contain data that the other may completely omit. As they say, check and double-check - it does not hurt to do your homework first. Then, baring that - ask the right questions. I am not certain, because I never looked under the hood of a '97 - but I *think* there are a set of screws that hold the upper part of the cover to the lower. The upper half should be moved aside, and then you have access to the lower tray and filter. Someone please back me up on this?

You are correct.

Two thumb screws on the '97s. You can use a flat blade or phillips screwdriver on them. They're captive, so just loosen them until free, and the top half of the box moves quite freely to replace the filter element.
(I read the previous post about the '95 and the problems getting the filter out, no such thing on the '97, it's quite easy, no manual required, its' all there right on the driver's side front, about a 5 minute job for a novice)

Thanks everyone for verifying the air filter configuration on a '97 Blazer. I took a closer look and it has the screws as you guys describe. I'll order an air filter and report back if I have a problem but it sounds pretty straightforward.

Thanks for the tip about manuals too. I was shocked to find out that no stores in Maryland carry the Chilton's manual for Blazers. Lady at Borders told me they have lots of Chilton's manuals but only for "popular cars." I argued with her a bit about the Blazer's popularity ;-) Haynes is common around here, it is all Advance Auto Parts, Pep Boys, and AutoZone carry.

I've placed an order for the Chilton's manual from Amazon.com where it is only $10. I also ordered Jim Allen's book about Chevy trucks since it seems to talk more about 4WD. More specifically here are the books:

"Chevrolet S-Series Pick-ups and SUVs, 1994-99"
ISBN#: 0801991110

"Chevy & GMC Truck Performance Handbook"
by Jim Allen
isbn: 0760307989

Thanks,
-- recurve

My 96 has 4 of the thumb screws did they change to just two screws and a hinge, or what?? If so i want to change my air box, if not go K&N.

Hi Trail Blazin96. I just took a cursory look. I noticed there were screws but I didn't look real close to verify if there were two or four. I'm ordering the AMSOIL oiled sponge air filter and will replace it in probably about a week. I'll report back later to let you know if it has two screws or four.

Thanks,
-- recurve

My 96 has 4 of the thumb screws did they change to just two screws and a hinge, or what?? If so i want to change my air box, if not go K&N.


My error, there is 4 screws on the box. No hinge, just captive screws you loosen and the cover lifts up and away to get at the filter element.

I was just wonderin, because if there was an air box with 2 screws, I would like to have one like that it is a pain in the rear to have to fit your hand in that little space and turn the screws you know what i am saying!