Some questions....

mikelbeck said
First, when I pulled the starter out it looks like the end of it broke off. It's one of those Mopar mini-starters. Should I be concerned? You can see it in the attached image.

Usually happens when initial timing is too advanced. Is it hard cranking?
Didn't you also have a problem with the starter loosening up on you?

mikelbeck said
Next, when I unbolted the driveshaft from the rear end, the u joint came apart... Both caps came off, little bits of stuff all over the place. So I assume I should replace it. How do I know which one I need? It's an 8-1/4 rear, if that makes any difference.

I've seen it here to measure the id of the clamps holding the universal caps while still on the car.

mikelbeck said
When I pull the driveshaft out of the transmission, am I gonna wind up with tranny fluid all over the floor?

Yes some. It will definately pour out more if you tilt the rear end of the tranny down. You have to plug it.

mikelbeck said
The bolts that came off my old converter are too small for my new converter. Any idea what size bolts I need for a PTC converter for a 727?

:dontknow: Andrews Trans might be able to tell you or Jegs tech
might have that answer.