Chevrolet Repair: 98 Chevy Blazer 4x4 auto w/4.3L, flash flash flash, chevy blazer

Question
Hello,
I have a 98 Blazer and want to know if what others have told me is true. I've been told you can read the codes with a paper clip by inserting it into the plug data port under the dash and count the "check engine" light blinks. My question is, how do you do this? What two terminals do you touch and if you touch the wrong ones can you fry the vehicle or electricute yourself? I don't have the diagnostic for this new a year and wanted to get the codes because the engine light is on. Can you you give me some insight into this?
Thank you.

Answer
Hi Mike,
A & B were the terminals on the older system. Count the flashes, like flash, flash, flash, pause, flash, flash, long pause, and repeat, would be code 32.

Some of the parts houses will either connect a code scan tool for you, or hand it to you and let you read the codes out in the parking lot. Ideally you will buy necessary parts from them.

You will need the tool to clear the codes anyway. Used to be able to unhook the power, but not any more.

Van