Got a 2001 with 106k on it. When the trans kicks up to OD at about 42 mph there is a slight ringing/sputtering that starts at the front. As i give it gas (just a little) the slight sputtering/ringing increases. The car accelerates. If I give it more gas and it kicks down to another gear the symptom is gone. The only other times I get the hint of this symptom is when I start the car right at first crank or when i am at a stop just taking off upon first touch of gas. Its like a high pitched clank. Any thoughts? I was thinking CPS because just yesterday my jeep started and promptly died. Then it would not start on a couple of cranks. It started and had no issues since.

 

Are you saying sputtering and high pitched clank at the same time?