Transmission bearing noise

So it runs great but has this noise that's stealing character from the whole experience. I've cycled oil through the trans/TC to flush the water I found in them earlier. The magnetic drain plug and oil had metal shavings. The noise is more apparent in 2nd and 3rd and can only be heard under load, not when coasting out of gear or with the clutch in. I probably already know the answer to this but...Am I doing more damage to gears, teeth etc by driving it? I don't have the time for a rebuild at the moment but how much time should I allow when I'm ready? Any advise on rebuilding or transmissions in general would be appreciated. thanks.

 

Sounds like your in the same boat I'm in. Definately take the shifter cover off and inspect the gears, that will help narrow alot of things down. In mine, even coasting in gear seemed to quiet it alot. I've drove on mine for about a week but this past Sunday when just driving around town it started to go and when it did it went pretty fast.

 

My experience has beeen that if the noise is more apparent in 2nd and 3rd gear that the transmission bearings are failing.
The transmission rebuild should realistically take about 4-6 hours after you get it out of the vehicle and the transfercase seperated from it.
Take your time and make sure everthing is clean when you rebuild it and that you have the time to do it without stopping or being disturbed.

 

I new someone would ask. One plug had a lot more than the other, but I didn't realize it until mixing them up. It was very fine particles, looked like very fine dust in the oil. I know the bearings are shot...don't know if the stuff in the oil could damage gears.

 

What exactly did it do?