1991 dodge ram w150, auto tranny. it's shifting odd. i have to bring it up to around 2400 to get it out of first and then it wont shift into third until around 45mph. is this normal or am i looking at a band adjustment here?

 

have you checked the trans fluid level? have you also made sure the kickdown linkage is adjusted correctly?

 

Bands have nothing to do with when it shifts. Bands either slip or they hold. If they haven't been adjusted in a while it never hurts to do them when you change the fluid or when they slip. It should shift into third, with light throttle pressure, at about 20-30 MPH. You have already been given the first two things to check.

 

how do i adjust the kickdown linkage?

 

there is a rod that goes from the throttle to a leaver on the transmission. on leaver there is a bolt that hold the rod from moving. you loosen the bolt, slide the rod as far forward as it will go and then tighten the lock bolt down again.

 

On the 91 you must make sure the idle speed actuator is retracted fully before you make this adjustment.