ADD

Thanks for the thorough response.

I definitely don't have the ball bearing in the blender sound. Just the usual soft ticking of the belts/fan up front when cold.

I also don't have the 2 sec lag you referenced with your friend. (fortunately) If I'm in 6th on the expressway and going at 75-80, if I step on the gas it'll still sit you back in the seat and I'm at 100. Downshift, fuggedaboutit. There is probably a millesecond "spool up" when I hammer the gas in the same gear.

Last night I lit up the traction with a 4,500 rpm 3-4 upshift. That's okay with me.

I'm thinking this is a mechanical tranny, driveshaft, clutch issue. Will let you know.