We have a 98 Ranger (3.0L) that when it is started when it is cold (only cold), sounds like the Bendix is kinda grinding for 2 seconds or so AFTER the engine starts and you release the key from the start position. it does it almost every time it starts cold. you drive it for 5 minutes, shut it off and restart it and it is quiet. it has been doing this for maybe a year, with no change to the sound nor the duration.
The other day while walking through a parking lot, my wife heard an Explorer while it was starting, and she said it sounded the same way our Ranger sounds.
What is the noise? Is it something which needs to be fixed NOW or i'll be sitting on the side of the road??
Any suggestions? tia, ron