Hunk of Metal- 95 Windstar tranny

[Eaglefan]

OK, need a little help.

Changing Tranny fluid and dropped pan. Nice big piece of metal stuck to the magnet (Thank God).

Attached are pic. Looks to be a piece from some type of wheel that has large teeth on it, not sure what it is though, Chilton didn't show it. So, what is it and how much time do I have until the tranny goes?

Has about 178M on it and I just put in new plugs, fuel injectors, and wires, and fresh oil change.

Van runs fine, so is this worth repairing?

Thanks.

[Flyingjackal456]

If the transmission runs fine just use it. If the transmission is bucking, jerking, or making any grinding noises then I suggest getting immediate help. The piece could have come from from anything inside the transmission. Just note that the average life of the Windstar transmission is about 120,000-130,000 miles. I'd say keep driving it until you find any symptoms. If your really paranoid, bring the hunk of metal to a transmission shop, possibly bring the van too. If that's the only hunk of metal that broke off (you can only hope) you may be fine.

I really wish the pictures were clear, they are very blurry. That can also help us help you.