Clicking noise in Tranny???? YJ

[James (Cubby) Culbertson]

Hiya folks,
First off, this is for a 95 YJ, 4.0L, not sure what the tranny is (AX15?) but it's whatever came stock. Anyway, just today, I start getting this clicking noise and it sounds like it's coming from my transmission. It also seems to get louder/faster with speed (not RPM's). I have yet to crawl under it and take a look but am terrified of having to get the tranny rebuilt. Anyone have something similar or any ideas as to what it could be? Would driveshaft U-Joints sound like this (coming from the tranny)? Thanks much for any help!
cc

[Blackest_Dawn]

Curiosity...
Have you checked your exhaust system? My Jeep used to make a tapping/clicking noise because the exhaust was loose. Since the cat is right above the skidplate/crossmember, it could be tapping down on it.

Also, double check your transmission fluid. It could be burnt up and not doing much good. If it is, the fluid will be a burnt red color, almost black if it is really bad. But good tranny fluid is a rose color. If it is burnt looking, take it to a oil change place, shop, dealer...where ever suits you...and get it's tranny flushed and a possible new strainer. I know what it's like to have to have the tranny rebuilt...it only takes a day but it takes a month's worth of paychecks to pay for it.

[James (Cubby) Culbertson]

Thanks. I crawled under it tonight. Didn't see any issues. Cat and exhaust are well out of the way. U-joints seem tight. And the fluid is nice and clear (not burnt). So it's looking more and more like a rebuild. I'll drive it a bit more and see what happens. Prolly swing by a shop I know and have them take a spin with me to get their opinion. And yes I know, it's not cheap!
Thanks.
cc