Bearings do not reduce parts breakage ,but they do provide more efficient power transfer between internal rotating components,they reduce friction and the resultant horsepower losses the friction consumes.all the thrust in a 2004r is towards the rear of the case.all metal and plastic thrust washer points(except the pump to overdrive drum and center support to direct drum )take a beating and are under capacity imo. it is the difference between the least efficient and the most efficient manners.