Transmission Question

[plasx]

While underneath my '08, 3.0, regular cab Ranger (with the truck in neutral and the parking brake on), I was checking the driveshaft for play and attempting to see if the slip yoke needed greasing.
During this I happened to push up on the driveshaft, and both the transmission and driveshaft together moved vertically (upward) slightly.
Does anyone know if this movement is normal, or "engineered in" to provide some mechanical relief?
Thanks for your assistance.

 

[RangerX]

How much is "a little bit"?

If my truck did that, I would think the mount between the trans and crossmember was broke, but I don't know if your 08 has a different setup.

 

[plasx]

Hey RangerX:
There's movement -- play -- approximately 1/2 inch or so. It's hard to gauge exactly. I expected the whole set-up to be rigid.
I looked at the mount you mentioned, between the transmission and the cross-member, and it's got a rubber spacer inside a hangar-style bracket. I can't tell if it's missing any other parts.
Man, I dread having to run by the dealer and have them check it out.
Thanks for your reply, RangerX. I appreciate any advice you can give.

 

[RangerX]

It's possible that the rubber separated from the metal on that mount. Maybe go underneath again and take another closer look?

 

[BrooklynBay]

The transmission shouldn't move that easily. The mounts are not that expensive, and are simple to replace if you have a floor jack. Were you checking everything for excessive play due to driveline noise? How many miles does it have?

 

[plasx]

Hey BrooklynBay:
Originally, I heard a vague "clunk" sound when accelerating from a stop, and then when coming to a stop. It seemed the sound originated in the driveshaft area. I was checking for driveshaft play and/or to see if the slip yoke needed greasing. I was also checking the U-Joints. The Ranger only has 4,500 miles on it. I discovered that, by design, I don't really have access to the slip yoke.
It was just by chance during this inspection, that I happened to push up on the driveshaft/tranny and discovered this play.
Thanks for your help and any advice you can give.

 

[plasx]

Another question, and I think the answer you give will help me with the transmission "play" question. So you don't think I'm too lazy, I did several searches but didn't nail an answer.
This question -- how many mount points are there for this transmission (3.0 Litre, Automatic)? I only see 2 mount points -- where the tranny bolts into the bellhousing/engine, and the tranny tail-mount, which is the hangar-style one-piece with the rubber gasket. Are there any other mount points?
Thanks for your assistance.

 

[BrooklynBay]

2 engine mounts & 1 transmission mount.