odd. Worst case you may need to have someone with a good scan tool monitor governor pressure readings.

I run 1 7/8 - 2 turn up front and 2 turns in the rear.

maybe I should go back and tighten up the front a bit then.

MonteC,

Is what I posted from Master tech a valid way to double check?

Was told the same 2 turns front band. Good no know it was not bad advice. Is this to keep the anchor from falling out?

tried adjusting front band to 2 turns, no difference.

It is definitely shifting 1-2. Verified that just now. The 2-3 shift is missing.

I have a Snap-On MT-2500 in the garage, but don't know what to look for exactly.

Should have a two pids for desired governor pressure and actual governor pressure. Actual needs to meet desired.

resolved and I feel like a moron.

Solenoid has two slots in it for the retainer plate. I stupidly picked the top groove, and the fluid was probably flowing right down the bottom of the solenoid creating zero pressure.

Shifts thru all three gears now, but the shifts are a, bit softer, and they happen later than before.
Any one who is a trans expert care to weigh in on exactly what the bands do when they are too tight or loose?

If the second gear band is loose it might take longer to shift to second, and could cause a sloppy 1-2 shift.

So then the bands only mess with the actual shift, because right now the shift are quick just not as low a they were, maybe it's the solenoid delaying the shift as it had a but more holding force. Or perhaps it needs time to learn the new solenoid.

I don't feel any skip on the 1-2 gear shift, no hunting going on, it pops right in.

I went 2 1/2 loose on the front band. Split the difference between the FSM and what you recommended. How much forgiveness is in the band adjustment?

band adjustment
 

I checked freeplay after I adjusted the bands before I put pan back on. The front had about 1/4 to 1/2 as referenced, but the rear is pretty tight. I am thinking I may need to back off a little more. Of course it couldn't be the other way around in case it isn't right! The front that can be adjusted without draining will most likely NOT be the one with a problem.

Let us know what you find out - I know there are a number of us working on rebuilding a tranny - and this info helps tremendously.