help...metal in the oil

[PAredneck]

Just changed my oil on my 02 7.3 / 84K on it. Had a piece of metal on the drain plug. About the size of the threaded part of the plug. Looked like half a metal washer that got caught in a press. Called the local dealer and talked to service. They said if its running ok (which it is) there is nothing they can do warrenty wise. My concern is when it goes over 100K and warrenty expires the engine goes up in smoke for a problem that occured while it was still in warrenty. I saved the oil and filter from the change but lost the metal piece.
My only thought is have the dealer drop the pan and check for other pieces but still afraid they will decline to do anything because motor is running fine. Hate to do it after dropping $60 worth of new oil in it. I do run my truck daily with a load and pulling a 4K trailer.
I'm no mechanic or engine designer, but I'm pretty sure finding metal in the oil is a bad thing and means you DO have a engine problem.
Should I call FORD?????
Give me your thoughts and sympthey!:pray:

[mschn99]

that piece of metal is a nozzle for the oil sprayers that spray the bottom of the cylender chaber walls, and yes, the dealer should pull the motor, drop the pan, replace that jet and check the others..........Marc