My manual tranny has been progresively been getting louder in 1st and 2nd gear, It sounds like the thrust bearing but a lot louder, anyone have any suggestions on what it could be and how much a rebuild costs ? I don't believe it's the thrust bearing, though that is noisy also.

 

My Maxima makes a huge whining noise while accelerating in first gear as well as in reverse. I took it in & they said I need a new Power Steering Pump. I don't know if your Max is doin the same or not. Good Luck

 

You maybe on to something there !!!