Weak planetary assembly gummed up the works!

[fred barney]

Hi guys,

I have a 1990 Caravan with a 3.0 liter engine and a 31th (A670) transmission.

I had a neutral shift incident (wife raced engine in neutral and shifted into drive accidently) that ruined the planetary assembly. It sent tiny inner-race bearing particles and metal all through the tranny.

I've got the transmission apart now and I'm wondering if some of you gurus can tell me whether it's advisable/possible to get all of the metal out of the trans including the govenor and torque converter? Seems like I might be better off getting another used core to rebuild, but I'm strapped for cash (it's Christmas).

Also, does anyone know whether there are any planet kits that are better than this original set? And while I'm at it, what other hard parts should I replace as standard practice? Any help would be appreciated.