Two weeks ago, I picked up my first Ranger, a 2001 XL. I love the truck, and am amazed at, for a small truck, the way in which the truck was built (the frame rails are huge).

From the day I picked up the truck, I noticed an intermittent and minor noise coming from the five-speed-gearbox - which sounds something like - although not nearly as loud or as severe- towing chains dragging on the ground.

Before I picked up the truck, knowing that it sat for a good year, I ignored most noises, all very minor, figuring they'd work themselves out (i.e. surface rust on the brake rotors). And since last week, the misc. noises disappeared (even the gearbox sounded okay).

But last night, not only did the noise reappear (although minor), but I didn't like the way the gearbox felt. In searching the 'net, I found out that a common problem with this gearbox, was for oil to leak out of the top of the unit.

As someone who limits himself to tune-up's and other minor repairs, I am in no way a mechanic. What skill level is required to replace the rubber plugs on top of the unit? Also, how long would the job take? Finally, I am really short on cash now...if it turns out that the job is above my ability, would an acceptable temporary solution be for me to continually add fluid to the gearbox, for the next two or so months? If so, how often should I check the fluid level in the box?

Thanks in advance, for any serious replies.

 

I replaced my rubber plugs with metal freeze plugs. In my opinion it's a better deal than the rubber. It was pretty easy as for I already had my trans out to replace my 5th gear. I'm not sure how easy it would be to do in the truck. I guess if you can reach them you can do it. I've also seen some guys reuse the rubber plugs by cleaning them and coating the with RTV. Not sure how it works but may hold you over for while.

 

I got replacement rubber plugs at the Ford dealer. Plucked the old ones out with a needle nose pliers. Popped in the new ones.... Maybe 15 minutes?

Have you checked the the fluid level in the transmission?

 

Try changing the transmission oil.. drain from the bottom plug, fill from the top plug a few inches below the bottom until oil trickles out. These use MERCON/DEXRON but there are a few aftermarket fluids that claim to be better.. although I don't know how much to trust them.

Keep in mind this transmission does make a little noise even when it's brand new.. it's basically a heavy-duty mazda transmission.

Good luck

 

Thanks all, for your replies...Actually, I flushed the gearbox yesterday (per the original owner, it's the first time on the truck), and it's shifting much better.

Luckilly, the noise wasn't coming from the transmission at all, but from an aluminum sleeve that covers one of the U-joints. Do you think there'd be any harm in cutting the sleeve off?

 

If you do, your shouldn't go 4wding, something might log it's self in there, but other than that, you'll be fine.

 

Thanks Alan, for your suggestion...makes sense that the u-joint should be okay, under normal use.