What is this metal in my transmission pan

[White86Tercel]

The truck is a 1998 Ford Exploer AWD 5.0L V8 with the 4R70W.

Does the metal peice look familiar do you think it is a piece that can be replaced without removing the transmission from the truck.

The truck was shifting smoothly when driving but the transmission fluid looked aweful and the transmission seemed to slip a little in reverse.

My friend dropped the transmission pan and we found this metal.

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[transman304]

Looks to be the rear case torrington bearing race. But I don't see any rollers in the mix. Very common problem with this transmission and would explain you rev problem. Trans has to come out no matter where it came from to see what other damage has been created.

 

[White86Tercel]

A few weeks after posting the picture and changing the fluid; the transmission stopped shifting into 4th and refused to shift into 3rd unless I had overdrive off. The transmission also makes awfull noises now when I slow down. I think I need to get someone to swap in a different tranny.