Clutch issues

HISTORY: So i just bought a 2014 tacoma 2 door 4 cyl 5 speed with 159k miles from a farmer that im realizing now definitely just abused it for the 2000 miles he owned it.

ISSUES:
1. when i have it in neutral it makes a slight whinining/grinding noise that stops when i push the clutch in.

2. Whines in gear 1-3 more than the 05 i had with 200k miles (or maybe that's just me being paranoid because i spent twice as much on this truck because i wanted the same rig with less rust).

3. Makes ticking/rattling noise when moving in first gear with the clutch pushed in.

CONCLUSION: im wondering if these are serious issues that will need to be fixed immediately or if i can ride it out for maybe 10k-20k miles so that i can save up enough time and money to do a full clutch replacement. Not trying to be stranded but also not trying to take another loan.

 

Welcome to TW!

My thoughts:

1. Probably the throw out bearing (release bearing).
2. Check the oil level in transmission and differential.
3. Possibly worn U joints. Do you notice any vibration or just noise? Also, do you have any groaning at certain speeds as you accelerate?

I would give the truck a good look underneath and see if any of the seals are leaking, check oil levels in transmission and differential, etc.

I'm happy to be corrected by more knowledgeable folks on here, but I would confirm the basic maintenance items, grease the U joints if they have fittings, and drive the truck.

 

At a stop in neutral if you have a whirring noise, sounds like a mainshaft bearing or some other internal bearing.
The noise goes away when you push in the clutch because the trans. stops turning.
The whining in the forward gears happens because the worn bearing allows the main and counter shafts excessive play and won't mesh properly.
You need to verify this quickly because if you drive it like that too long, it will destroy the rest of the trans. Might get lucky with just bearings if you catch it in time.

 

Moto 521 when you say internal bearing are you referring to something inside the transmission? Or in the clutch?
I got out when it was running and in neutral and peaked my head under. The noise sounded like it was coming from the clutch (so like a little farther back) but now you have me worried it could be in the transmission.

 

Poke your head under the passenger door and see if the exhaust heat shield above the cat is secured to the floor.

 

Yes, inside the transmission. Use a stethoscope or a long screw driver and try and pinpoint the area that makes the noise. Throw out bearing would make noise when it is pressed against the pressure plate fingers, like when you press the clutch pedal to the floor.
https://www.autozone.com/test-scan-and-specialty-tools/automotive-stethoscope

 

Any updates? Were you able to narrow down where the noise is coming from?

 

Taking it in to a transmission specialist tomorrow