Sorry I didn't get back to you sooner Brian, I had to re-normalize myself. But I'm feeling much better nooooooowww.
Yes as to the micron sized metal particles in my last engine oil change
The third member seems okey-dokey tho.
The noise I am hearing seems to be coming from the bevel cluster using a stethoscope, hopefully the bearing located in the rear/output of the bevel housing.
There are both ball/roller bearings as well as a needle bearing guiding the 2 very short shafts in the housing proper. I have felt the exquisite sensation of needles breaking in an old Jag, so I am reasonably sure that is what I felt recently with the Connie.
Y'all keep me in your prayers that this SNAFU is not inside the cases! (That damn motor is heavy)!
Fretka