Does anyone have experience with tranny noise when downshifting. This is the second Toyota with the W56 transmission that has done this. The first one was a rebuilt transmission from Marlin Crawler. When the transmission is warmed up (most noticeable after highway driving), and when I downshift into 3rd or 4th gear for example, I get what sounds like a growl/chatter noise (not sure how to describe it).
W transmission downshift noise
- Thread starter earl
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As long as it still makes noise you should be good... 
Most of the W56 trannys I've ran have been kind of noisy. As long as you aren't popping out of gear or anything I wouldn't worry too much about it.
Most of the W56 trannys I've ran have been kind of noisy. As long as you aren't popping out of gear or anything I wouldn't worry too much about it.
years ago, Marlin specifically told me not to downshift a w series transmission for various reasons.
I want to say the main one is destroying the cages needle bearings, but I'd have to let him say the specifics.
I want to say the main one is destroying the cages needle bearings, but I'd have to let him say the specifics.
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- #4
Thanks for the responses, I'll keep driving her till she blows up or something and try to avoid downshifting! I've noticed a similar noise, but not nearly as loud or noticeable, right after I shift, when there's a little bit of lugging until the engine rpms get back up. I try not to lug the engine, but sometimes shifts are a little earlier than others. 
I have one with 230k miles that is finally making some noise. I've wondered if the thrower bearings are finally going.
Check the transmission oil level. Do you operate mostly in a cold climate? You might want to run a lighter weight oil so it warms up faster in the winter.
Check the transmission oil level. Do you operate mostly in a cold climate? You might want to run a lighter weight oil so it warms up faster in the winter.
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- #7
So it sounds like it's just a wear issue, and that it's getting a little tired. The truck has 150k miles on it. It seems to only start sounding really noisy and loose inside when it is hot, like after being on the highway. Driving to work for 10 minutes it won't do it.
I'll double check the transmission oil level too. That can never hurt
I'll double check the transmission oil level too. That can never hurt
Front bearing