Hard 1st to 2nd shift............

[jlsparky7]

This isnt for my EX but for my 2001 ranger auto xlt 2wd extended cab with 81,000 miles. For the past couple months it seems like my 1st to 2nd gear shift is much harder than it should be. Seems like it might be getting hung up or something. I did a tranny flush at 50k. Also a rear diff flush last week with amsoil.

I also sometimes get a "clunk" when I start the truck. I also get a very rare situation when I put it in reverse it wont engage until I hit the gas (lightly) then there is another "clunk". Im thinking my slip yoke needs to be greased (ive never greased it) which I will do tomorrow (if I have one).

Here are my questions.

Can the slip yoke needing to be greased cause the hard 1st-2nd shift?
Any chance I need a new speed sensor on the diff?
Would shift solenoid replacement be needed?
Anything else I should grease? (u joints for example.)

Thanks in advance!

 

[BrooklynBay]

Check the ATF fluid level, U joints, and valve body gaskets.

 

[jlsparky7]

ATF is good,. Ill check the u joints tonight. Where are the valve body gaskets and how do I check them?

 

[BrooklynBay]

The sticky thread in the transmission section called the 5R55E valve body rebuild diary has all of the details with pictures.