[OG68]

I found cracks on my full length tray near the area where it was attached to the #2 main cap.

[mgarblik]

On the full length windage trays, the cracks can be anywhere, honestly. But the most common areas are: Where the tray attaches to the #2 and #4 main cap. There is a steel plate spot welded to the tray where the bolts go through. Cracks often radiate outward from the welds and where the pan is bolted. Second area is on the side of the pan where the slots are punched in the tray for oil drainage. Cracks start in the corners of the punched windows and move toward the outside edges. Very much the way a windshield cracks from a rock chip for example. I don't believe the 4/5 short trays have any of these problems because they are thicker material. Possibly a better material as well.

[mgarblik]

I am sorry to mention this now. But did you look at the flex plate/torque converter to see if the bolts were loose, or the flex plate cracked? Either can make noise that mimics a fuel pump or other noise from the front of the engine. It doesn't make sense, but it can. I say this because you said the AT line pressure was excessively high and the noise starts after 15-30 seconds. This is the approximate time it takes the trans pressure to build as well as engine oil pressure. Before you possibly take the engine out, take the converter cover off and check the bolts. Also get your camera up in there and look at the flex plate bolts. When the plate cracks, it will usually leave a rust trail, radiating from the bolt holes. Give that area a look before going too far into the engine.