4 speed ka-booom !

^^^ ? The car wouldn't move a inch in first or second, but reversed off the track. Of course the car is on jack stands and it seems to be working fine. I'm still not doubting your suspicions totally, but also given the history that it was just rebuilt completely with all new internal parts Gears, spool, bearings, 489 case, and setup by the best in town. Either way the tranny has to be looked through and rebuilt over this winter. I bought it over a year and a half ago and have done nothing but abused it and it's the only part of the drive train that I have not replace or rebuilt or upgraded. I'll have the rear end out and off this winter putting new springs and shocks at any rate so if the tranny turns out not to be the problem when I test drive it and if I hear anything or feel anything wrong I'll be able to take care of it at that point. Thank you again for your help.