Ever since I got my Ranger back in May 2007 (traded from a 1999 GMC Jimmy mid size SUV), I have notice an excessive knocking noise under moddest load on the 3.0 litre V-6 engine as I am shifting through the gears. First & second it's fairly quiet. But going through third, fourth and into OD I can really hear it knock.

Is this a common sound for this engine type?