Just Called Obsolete Chevrolet in Nashville, Ga and spoke to a very nice lady about this. They had one in stock (WWII surplus, packed in cosmoline) and she insisted on getting it and measuring it so I could determine if it's the part I need. No dice: mine is just a ring, hers had a flange on it. Also, mine OD is about 1 5/8", hers was well over 2 1/2" - made for a 1 1/2 ton or larger.
Got me thinking, though. My parts book shows a Transmission Rear Bearing Retainer Pt# 606667 that fits 31-47 4-speed. Think that might be it. Unfortunately, Obsolete didn't have one and never has. Thanks for the input - at least (I think) I know what I'm looking for. Chasing the wild goose!!
