Clunk in tranny

[scooterspal]

Just picked up a high mileage '97 Ranger XLT 4.0 with 4x4 and 5-speed manual transmission. Shifts smoothly and easily and with no issues. Seems to still have plenty of power.

However, when I give it the gas it makes a clunk as it apparently engages the tranmission. Does the same if I let off on the pedal. Owner said he was told it is the tranny mounts.

Thoughts?

BTW: I cannot find the dipstick for the tranny? Should there be one and where is it.

Thanks!

 

[Lil-Pony]

"think with your dipstick jimmy"
no dipstick?
this clank do you feel it in the shifter or on the floor board?

 

[RonD]

?? there is no dip stick on a 5-speed manual?? only on automatics

U-joints on the drive shaft should be replaced, just because of the high miles but they are probably the source of the clunks.

Also open the hood and start the engine, put emergency brake on.
Put in 1st and let clutch out slowly watch engine to see if it moves up on one side
Put in reverse and do the same.
You are checking if motor mounts are broken or loose, engine will move sideways a little with the torque but not up, if you see it raise up you have motor mount issue.

At the same time listen for a clunk from floor board, transmission lifting and hitting floor board.

 

[scooterspal]

... I do not remember feeling the clunk in the stick. More like from slightly behind me and under the middle of the vehicle. You can feel it in your seat.
Almost like there's some slippage in engaging the transfer of power from engine to tranny.

It can make it repeat over and over just by giving some gas and letting off. Clunks each time I do that.

Maybe those U joints?? I did crawl under there yesterday and was able to turn them around may a half inch. Not sure if that's normal play or not.