Faults:
Brakes are either really touchy, or like a sponge. Takes getting used to.
Squirrelly in rain/snow.
Always has at least one creak, crackle, or rattle.
RUST.
Old engines are oil eaters. Check the level every two weeks before starting it up.
General Comments:
This truck is one of the most versatile vehicles I have ever come in contact with.
I have the reg. cab long bed 2wd (limited slip posi) model with adjustable rear air shocks, which I highly recommend to anyone who will be towing with these. And they will certainly (at least try) tow nearly anything you ask it to! And haul too! It just amazes me that this little compact pickup can do just as much as a half ton would do!
My truck has original engine and trans that are still going after 218,000 hard driven miles. Some of my body has been replaced (new bed, cab corners) because of notorious S-10 rust issues, but if you can do a good patch job, they are good as new.
Recently drove through blizzard conditions (1-2 feet of blowing snow), and as long as you are moving and know how to control a RWD in the snow, it's a blast! Plus, snow tires are well worth the investment.
Just a totally underrated truck in my opinion and is an absolute joy to own. BEST (compact) TRUCK CHEVROLET HAS EVER MADE.
31st Jan 2020, 19:19
The starter should last longer (are you sure you are using quality parts?)
Other than that, at 240,000 miles that is good going for any vehicle, and most transmissions would need work by then or earlier.