Given the symptoms of whining and transmission troubles, you may have a dying transmission. The tranny can make whining/whirring noises when certain internal pressures are off, when the filter is clogged, when the pump is fighting against restriction or drawing air, etc.

I say number one is to check your fluid and perhaps do a flush, adding a bottle of Lucas Transfix along with the new fluid. I am not a believer in snake oils, but there is science behind changing the viscosity and characteristics of hydraulic fluid to hide symptoms of wear and prevent further damage. Lucas Transfix actually improves many transmissions that show signs of high mileage.

The gas smell is probably nothing. What is your mileage like?

The ticking noise you hear could be exhaust related. Any holes?