Thanks Ed for a great reply.  Once again this list proves to be invaluable.  I will drain the oil down to the level you suggest and see what happens.

I got a new transmission from Rock Mountain Motor works with a lifetime guarantee.  If you are looking for trans, that might be a good source.

A few more questions:

Do you have the name of the shop in Nevada that you mentioned?  I would like to have a strong case when I call AVP next.

Is yours a 2.1 or, like mine, a 1.9 with 2.1 crank?  If it is like mine, how hot/cool does it run?

Thanks for your help.
Peter