Odd "clicking" noise that is almost gone when hot...

[cobrajet1o4]

I have a 94 Subaru Legacy LS AWD with the auto (4EAT).

I just got this car, and it has 201,438 miles. I have always wanted a subaru, and im so happy with it.=)

Now, when I start the car and drive to college, there is a clicking/taping/knocking sound from the transmission area. It is very loud and only makes this sound under any kind of acceleration.

If I put it in "N" and rev it up there is no sound...also about half way to school the sound is so soft, i cant hear it almost. (when warm)... The CV joints look good, and there is a normal about of play.

The front diff is clean and green, the transmission could use a flush and filter im sure. It shifts ok for the miles. still has a good amount of grab.

the torque converter feels great and locks in at about 50mph and unlocks at 42mph.

also the torque split seems to work great too. I live up a hill that is clay type mud and when i put it in "2" with the manual button on, the rear comes to life.....tons of fun!

thank you for your help. I like this 4EAT transmission, but I would like to install a five speed from a parts car i want to buy. Also I see that the 2.2 maybe a better then the 2.5? Now Im just dreaming about making my Legacy a STI...lol..

[cobrajet1o4]

also, i have not looked at the rear diff or the rear drive line. I do know its a 3.900 ....its great on the freeway!!!

[ericem]

Hmm check the transmission level sounds like the flexplate is about to go though to be honest. Another possibility could be a exhaust leak because the engine would move more with a load it might create a midpipe leak.

[cobrajet1o4]

thank you, what is the best way to check the flex-plate and make sure the torque converter bolts are tight?

trans fluid is toped off. and I do have a small exhaust leak on the driver side. this sound reminds me of when i took my ranger 4x4 rock climbing and broke the side gears in the carrier on the rear diff.

is a five speed swap ok to do with a newer transmission? my Subaru is a 94. i can find a lot of outbacks but they have the 2.5l

[wtdash]

Hi, I'm not sure about the clicking noise. It doesn't change if you turn right/left? It could be the flex plate too.

This POST shows flex plate/TC issues and this one has links to the access hole on the back of the engine.

I'm no 5-speed expert, but there is a LOT of info on here and NASIOC about swapping in 5-speeds. The '96-98 Outback 5-speed is a good trans from what I've read. The EJ25D from '96-98/99 is know for blowing head gaskets, otherwise it's a good engine, too.



TD

[Legacy777]

Try sticking a fuse in the FWD fuse holder to eliminate the AWD system as a possible problem. Are you sure it's coming from the transmission area?

Can you describe the sound some more. Are you sure it's not coming from the engine area? Any more details would be helpful.