(Need Help Diagnosing) 2002 3.0 V6 Chattering Noise - Suspected Auto Transmission Issues

[jth2664]

All,

Any help would be appreciated, thank you in advance for any input. I own a 3.0 V6 2002 Ranger. I am hearing a pretty intense chattering noise in reverse and drive. The noise almost completely goes away in park and neutral. Chattering occurs in drive and reverse when off gas, upon applying throttle, the noise goes away. I am not noticing any slip, the gear shifts are a little hard. Slight stutter at idle. No check engine lights. Currently, I am leaning towards it being something to do with my transmission. If anyone has any ideas or previous experience I would appreciate any feedback. If the trans has to be replaced/rebuilt, do you think it'd be worth it to manual swap? I would like to, however I know it is a whole different can of worms. Thank you for reading!

 

[bobbywalter]

fluid level

 

[jth2664]

Fluid is just below the hash marks on the dipstick. Fluid smells normal and is a slightly dark pink, which is extremely surprising to me lol. I am thinking to just get in there and drain the trans and replace the filter.

 

[pentode]

FWIW, I had similar symptoms on my 2005 5R44. When I dropped the pan on it I found the previous mechanic left off one of the o-rings on the filter so it was sucking air.

 

[jth2664]

FWIW, I had similar symptoms on my 2005 5R44. When I dropped the pan on it I found the previous mechanic left off one of the o-rings on the filter so it was sucking air.

Appreciate the input, I will try my hardest not to make the same error