85' F150 4.9L, 4X4, 4-Speed...what things could it be?

 

We need to know under what conditions it whines. What speed? Under power or slowing down? What gear, or does it change with the gear? Gives us a few clues, please.

 

Hmmm...well...I primarily notice it at low speed...driving through a parking lot, etc. Its also been shifting a little more difficult in the last month or so. Maybe the trans is low on fluid...90 weight gear oil/right? Doesn't the transfer case also take 90 weight gear oil?

 

I don't know what the tranny takes as you didn't say what tranny you have, but an NP208 t-case takes ATF - not gear lube. Could also be the power steering pump low on fluid.

 

I have the 4-speed w/granny first. My book says all manual trans us SAE 85W/90 gear oil. I'm not sure on the transfer case...how do I identify?!

 

Several different 4-speed trannies with granny 1st gears were used in these trucks. I don't know what lube each takes, but you can go to the stickies and find pictures with which you can ID your tranny. Then you can google what lube it takes.

The NP208 t-case has a red label on it that identifies it.

 

Yeah, I'll have to obviously make sure what transfer case I have...90 weight on the trans though?

 

That power steering pump is prone to whine. I'd rule it out first thing.

 

I don't know about the tranny lube as I'm not near my manuals at the moment. Will check tomorrow.

 

I have the 85' shop manual, but I don't see anything pertaining to trans fluid. My Chiltons lists 90W for all manual trans.

 

I've read you can use type-F ATF in the ps pump to quiet it down...anyone?

 

The 1985 owner's manual says:

• Power steering: Type F ATF
• All manual transmissions: Standard Transmission Lube
• All transfer cases: Dexron II ATF

 

Where does the whine come from? The engine compartment? The rear axle? Underneath you? There's a lot of things that can whine on an old truck like this, from a lot of different spots. Mine's always given a weird whine in first gear (I have a C6 auto, though), but it's never ever given me any trouble.

 

Yes, I'm fairly familiar when automatics whine...I've never had a manual (which is what I have) whine. The sound...seems to come from under to in front of me...my best guess...is its the trans or possibly front axle. I'll do more troubleshooting this weekend...checking fluid levels, etc.

 

Hey
It could be your throwout bearing...