Hi there, new to this forum thing so hopefully I am doing things correctly. I have a frustrating problem with my Ranger. When releasing the clutch it makes a short sort of grinding howling sound. It happens right at the top of the clutch. Just at that point where you apply the throttle and begin to pull away at the same time clutch pedal is about to be completely released. It only last a second. Only happens in first gear and reverse. Seems to be worse in wet cool weather and generally at first start up, although it will happen randomly through out the day. It is also intermittent. Does not happen every time. Shifts just fine, runs good otherwise. I have had it into the dealer several times. They seem fixated on the slave cylinder/throw out bearing. They have changed it four times and on the third attempt they swapped out the entire clutch assembly. After that I thought it was solved because it lasted two years. The a couple weeks ago it started again. I took it in and they worked on it again. To no avail. It is still happening and now worse than ever. I don't think it's a pilot bearing. Symptoms don't fit. Could it be a tranny bearing?

 

i hope you do not keep your left foot on the clutch pedal as you drive , or when stopped

when stopped , the tranny should be in neutral

or premature wear of the throw-out bearing will occur

 

I would think a trans issue wouldn't have disappeared for 2 years with clutch change.

Must be in the clutch assembly but can't think of any reason for it.

 

it would sometimes with a new input shaft centering bushing

eventually the bushing will wear out , also if the input shaft bearing is not receiving proper lubrication

 

You know just reasoning it out seems to point to something at the front of the transmission. Your suggestion makes sense. I will have Ford check it out