Transmission install..

Yes. I got the large bearing retainer substitute from Dan Brewer, so that I don't have to use the reducer ring. Not sure that I understand why it didn't tear itself to failure. Just swapping out the bearing retainer seems the better way to go, though more expensive. Next time the trans is out of the Dart, I will do the dame thing and toss the reducer ring.
Nodemon, sounds like you are on your way!