John_Kunkel , have you seen that check ball be left out before with similar results? I bet you are right on the check ball causing this.
From my experience, removing the check ball results in broken pieces i.e. band, anchor links, servo piston etc. even a case split at the band lever pin.
IMHO, the two check balls in the later transfer plate (rear clutch and rear servo) are the best change Ma Mopar ever made to the TF; removing them makes no logical sense yet the major kit makers have you remove them.
