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I've got the 2wd 94 Ranger 2.3 with the 5 spd manual (Mazda trans?). 120k miles, nice inexpensive vehicle. Recently, I'm noticing a whirring/squeaking sound that sounds like it's coming from the manual transmission (as I can hear it best through the rear window). When I shift into first, (and a bit in second) at slow speeds, I hear this whirring/squeaking sound. It occurs only when it's in gear, and only when I'm adding power. It gets quicker as I accelerate, and then disappears as I upshift and pick up speed. It stops if I press the clutch or if I'm coasting. I had the gear oil (the manual calls for dextron/mercon) replaced about a year ago, and I added more recently as it's been leaking a bit. I added the fluid with the truck level so as not to overfill. I'd heard from other people that this is common, but I think it's getting a bit louder (or my mind is playing tricks on me?)
U-Joints?? Are you sure he was a mechanic? From what you described, that problem sounds like a throw-out (or "clutch-release") bearing in your transmission to me.