A-727 small metal debris in pan - rebuild?

Thank you for sharing your knowledge and providing the Hotrod link.
Would it be fair to say that the early upshifts are not a surprise to you based on the trans originating in say a '71 Newport Royal (4000 pounds) and now fitted in a Dart (2900 pounds)? It's not so much a fault as being the intended character for the original application?

Not surprised at all, as the TF series transmissions have always been soft stock even though they are tough as hell.
They built them so granny had a nice smooth ride to the store.:D
They perk up nice with a little work.