Hi again,
Was in for service at the dealer a couple of months ago, trying to decide whether it was time to trade in (decided to keep her!), one of my concerns was a clunky trans. Dealer suggested trans mount (completely soft, actually), front flex disk (typical replacement item, I know), and differential mounts. Are the diff mounts a typical repair? Any idea on the labor cost (hours)? The mounts themselves are cheap.
Thank you all (watching for another super-fast reply, Jeff...)
-Nick

Nick, if the transmount has gone completely soft, then there is a good chance it has separated. This can be checked by putting a jack under the trans and trying to raise it. If the tailshaft leaves the mount, then that is at least one problem that will need attention (easy, inexpensive). The clunk you describe may be the trans case banging the tunnel when you accelerate and apply torque. The last item I would entertain would be the diff mounts. Flex disk is aonther good possibility. Can you be more specific about the noise you are hearing??

The trans seems to slam when shifting, especially when cold, but also there when warmed up. This is audible - a defined "thump" and tangible, a distinct kick in the pants. This is especially evident when downshifting, eg when approaching a stoplight. Like there is some driveline slack/lash (correct terms?). There is also some lurching when shifting from N/P into D or R. While we're on the subject, there is also some slip when shifting from 2-3, but only when very cold. I've been hesitant to have it adjusted since the trans seems to shift harshly otherwise (the aforementioned "slam").
Whew!
Really appreciate your advice on this one, Jeff (and others).
-Nick

That sure sounds like the trans mount has packed it in. Start there. Easy and relatively inexpensive. What you describe is not characteristic of flex disk or diff mounts.