Grinding sounds from the tranny? + another question

[slash]

Hey, new to the forum!

I have a 1992 Ford Ranger XLT 2wd. It's been really nice for it's age! Very nice shape for having 260,000 km's... until now. I bought it a year ago as my first truck. I'm 16, and don't really know a whole lot about vehicle repair yet haha.

Now the problem: It seems that when I speed up, and then slowly let off the gas, there is an odd grinding sound. It's a fast "tuh-tuh-tuh-tuh" sound. The sound kind of reminds me of an engine retarder brake on a semi. I swear it's coming from the tranny, but I could be wrong.

Another problem: When I push down/release the gas pedal while driving, it feels and sounds as if the rear axel is being pushed in/out of place. It could also be something in the tranny... it makes kind of a "tug" sound.

These descriptions are kind of vague... but if anyone knows whats going on with my Ranger.. Any tips or help would be awesome!

Thanks!

 

[Jspafford]

The first thing I would check is the universal joints for any excessive play.

 

[fire57dan]

Yeah I second the U's. Mine need to be replaced at the moment. The sound reminds me of cards in a bycicle wheel.

 

[MAKG]

Another possibility is a loose pinion or rear transmission bushing. Grab the driveshaft and see where the play is. U-joints are likely.

If the rear feels like it is moving around, look for loose U-bolts (not U-joints) or broken leaves in the springs.

 

[slash]

Yeah I second the U's. Mine need to be replaced at the moment. The sound reminds me of cards in a bycicle wheel.

Haha yeah that's another way of explaining the sound. It's a nasty sound and people look at me funny lol. So i will get the u's checked out, and also look at the pinion/rear tranny bushing.

thanks for your help guys