so, i started hearing a hum that got louder as my speed increases, and then
gets quieter around 45mph. i thought maybe my CV joints had reached a
breaking point? hoped that my transmission, which was rebuilt not toooo long
ago by a PO, did not decide to spontaneously bust itself. i decided to
change the trans fluid, and when i took out the magnetic plug...there's a
piece of stamped metal and a single ball bearing stuck to it. the ball
bearing was maybe 4mm,here is a picture of the metal
piece<http://imgur.com/V15Vi.jpg>.
i could not identify which bearing this might be from in the bentley
diagram. the van still runs fine, just makes noise. do i need to tear the
thing apart? i'm in Alaska for the summer, and if this is going to have to
be done, i should probably do it pretty soon, but if i can make it south to
civilization this fall on what i've got, i'm sure i'd end up saving some
precious summer work dollars.

basically, i've been trying to drive it alot to see if i can make it fail. i
work for a tour boat company and i could probably talk our mechanic into
helping me tear it apart, he's familiar with vanagons...what do you guys
think?  what is the best source in the northwest for parts? tell me what i
need to hear, list.

thanks in advance
-bob

PS, while this message was pending, i've learned that this transmission is
somewhat rare, the code is DX, it's the 5 speed diesel trans.