Aaron,
I don't remember what that washer does, but I'm sure it needs to be
replaced for the tranny to work properly.  It was deep in the
transmission.  You would have to remove and completely disassemble it to
replace this part, and then might as well rebuild it, or replace any other
worn parts.  It is not that hard to rebuild the tranny.  You don't need any
special tools, just need to stay organized and keep everything very
clean.  I think a rebuild kit is less than $100.

Edward

At 12:18 AM 4/27/2006, you wrote:
>On Apr 26, 2006, at 5:29 PM, Edward Maglott wrote:
>
>>how big around was this broken up plastic washer thingy?  My AT
>>died, and
>>one piece that got destroyed was a nylon(I think) thrust washer,
>>about an
>>inch and a half in diameter.  The replacement part from the dealer
>>was metal.
>>
>>Edward
>
>That sounds like it. It was just sitting in the filter in around 15
>pieces. What is it's purpose? Does it need to be replaced and if so,
>can it be replaced fairly easily?
>
>I'm not sure that I want to try to repair this tranny if it's falling
>apart internally. Of course, if $50 in pars and a few hours of my
>time could take me another 2 years, I would rather do that that than
>overhaul the entire tranny for much more.
>
>Opinions and thoughts are still appreciated...
>
>- Aaron