I Love My Ranger, Hate The Tranny!

[Pavoner]

I have a '97 ranger 4X4, 4.0L, Auto (BOOOOO!). When I begin accelerating from a stop I fell a thud about 2 seconds after starting to move, and another 1-2seconds later. I should note that even uphill, this seems to only happen after the driveline is loaded up (truck is actually moving...but slowly). and when I decelerate Also, the rear end (body not axle seems to "lift up" significantly when accelerating and then drops after the thud. I don't remember my older ranger doing this (same as now but manual and a 94). This problem seems to be more pronounced on HOT days or after long drives thsi is why I have posted the question here. I know SWFALL about automatic transmissions. (I hate them sooo much, this is my first...and last!) But these symptoms really confuse me, why would the back end lift if this was a tranny problem?, if this is a spring/suspension problem why the change with temperature!!!!?

Hopefully somone out there is not as confused as me!

 

[Earl43P]

Slipyoke and axle wrap are what you are feeling. Two separate issues.

Ford came out with a TSB for many year Rangers to put a new (assuming thicker, less temperature-sensitive) grease on the slipyoke.

Axle wrap is normal, but can be cured with traction bars different leaf springs, etc.


May want to inspect your U-joints on the DS if you aren't convinced it is the slipyoke.