Since that incident resulted in a bent frame right in that general area, it's almost certainly the cause. Fortunately, those bearing retainers aren't particularly scarce. If you're still running the torque tube 3 speed, I've got a couple of complete transmissions stashed away. Let me know if you need one.
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!