What is this tranny part in pic?

I am installing a Lentech valve body in my '88 5.0 LX's AOD transmission. I dropped the tranny pan to drain the ATF and found this part sitting in the pan. Anyone know what it is?



I suspect this can't be a good thing but, oddly, the transmission has always worked fine. I had to pull the tranny out to replace the rear main seal, and figured I'd upgrade the VB and torque converter while it was on the floor. Any help would be really appreciated!

Oh yeah...the part is about an inch-and-a-half long and 3/4 of an inch at its widest part. Thanks again for any help.

Are you serious? It's some kind of assmebly guide or plug that clears itself into the pan when the tranny is loaded with ATF and put into use? Wow! Thank you for the help...I really appreciate it...and may even get some sleep tonight!

First, thank you to everyone for your help. This is a great web site. I don't think the ATF has ever been changed. I bought this '88 LX in April 2008...with 29,000 miles on the clock, bone stock and in generally great shape, other than the usal things that need attention after 20 years. The heater core leaked and had to be replaced. AC needed conversion and a recharge. The rear main seal leaks, (working on that now), the OE radio and speakers really stunk compared to today's electronics, etc. She's got a whopping 35,000 miles on her now and with help from folks like you on this site I'm hoping to enjoy the car for many more miles to come....some of them a quarter at a time. Best time so far at New England Dragway: 15.2 seconds at 92 MPH without any mods other than a BBK CAI and Flowmasters. Thanks again!