2003 Ranger 2WD 4cyl Manual strange noise

[sgjii]

Periodically, by which I mean every time I drive, I hear a noise that is a cross between a grind & buzz. Kinda like a playing card in bicycle spokes. It is not constant but occasional, occurs upon depressing the clutch and sometimes while idling at a light with the clutch depressed.

Any ideas on the culprit?

 

[pjtoledo]

either throw-out or pilot bearing. doesn't matter which one, tranny has to come out and its best to replace both while you're in there.
that trans is easy to remove, if you can find all the bell housing bolts.