Recently installed a transmission in my 02 ford ranger auto 2wd
did the rear main seal while I had it out now that everything is all together when I start it I hear a weird noise sounds like something is rubbing, I re tightened flex plate bolts and spun the crank it only drags in one spot BUT with the starter removed I don’t hear it when starter is in I hear from what it sounds like is the teeth rubbing only at one point while rotating flex plate I doubt I bent it during installing but can’t completely rule it out , could it be my bendix is stuck? Or bent flex it would be the 3rd time removing transmission I’m doing this on the ground without a transmission Jack so it’s not fun at all if I can find the issue with out removing it that would be ideal

 

The idea is to check as much as possible BEFORE installing the trans.

If the flex was removed , could it have been installed in the wrong place, some have markings to assure correct installation.

I don't know how you can verify much with the trans still in there, but if you can have someone manually turn the engine over , you should be able to see where alignment is off or not.
It does not pay to be hasty when assembling because one error can make us do the job over AND over.

What helps is,,,,,,,,,,,,get 2 or 3 bolts same size and longer as those that secure the trans to the engine , cut off the heads and use them as guide studs to make trans installation easier and with less problems.