how do I get help with my Exp transmission - this is urgent
Hi,
I was referred here by a fellow Craigslister, in response to my plea for someone to help me with getting my 96 4WD fixed. I am a fan of Explorers and this is my second. I put almost 400,000 miles on my previous one same year, but 2WD. It served me very well and is in retirement sitting (not sure if I should save for parts or sell it). I needed another.
History: So far, in the past two years this one has been absolutely problem free (except for the CD player breaking). I had been told during the summer, that I needed to change my transmission fluid, but didn't have money (I'm a full time student with 3 jobs) or time, and now it/something is compelling my attention in a BIG way.
Symptoms: When I am pulling out of or into a parking position, and also when I accelerate from a stop sign especially, and when I turn my wheel, the car makes clunking noises so menacing to me that at first I thought I had hit something. Now it feels more like something is going to fall out of the car. This is all within a space of two days too. There was a very occasional clunk that I heard over the space of the last couple of weeks, but suddenly it's in my face. That's how it feels anyway.
(Mis?) Management: I tried to check the front u joint (couldn't find the back, I don't have a lift or anything) and not sure if I am just not strong enough to wiggle it or if it is actually solid. I am told it could also be the radius arm bushing? The sound seems to be more from the rear though. I am really not a car detective. I am good at lots of things, but this isn't one of them. Not sure the subtleties I have missed or whatever. Thus this email to any of you out there, especially in Portland (Oregon) who might be willing to trade (I have tons of skills to offer) to help me out.
Thanks,
Jade