*** UPDATE 3 ***
So far all indicators are leaning toward the torque converter. Talked with Florida TC and they pretty much said that's one of the symptoms of a failing TC in a CRD behaves. Especially after eliminating all / many of the other possibilities.
I also searched the forum ...again... and it also confirmed that it very well could be the TC and more than likely IS.
After replacing an axle, front wheel bearing hub, and front driveshaft CV's that probably didn't need to be replaced, I now get to spend MORE $$ on what I finally hope is the offending problem.
