2003 Mercury Mountaineer Premium AWD 4.6 V8, 5R55, 105k,

Customer brought in above vehicle, metallic grinding noise from bellhousing, no other symptoms or DTCs. Constant about 1100-2500 rpm whether in drive or idling. seems to only appear when warmed up. No issues with trans, shifts appropriately and changed fluid. Customer advises noise has existed for 3 years, however now its louder.. Noticed the pep boys inspection has resulted in a removed bellhousing inspection plate, which is why customer claims louder now.

Baffling? stethoscope reveals loud metallic noise in bellhousing area, torque convertor area. this poor lady has spent thousands on diagnosis and a fluid change.

Any ideas?

Chris Breads
Technician/Owner
Emergent Customs
North Tonawanda, New York, USA