I didn't get much done today. I first did some engine service including replacing all of the coolant hoses, installing a new thermostat, and fixing a coolant crossover tube leak at the cylinder head. I used this as an opportunity to flush out the engine, radiator, and heater core with water.
I changed the engine oil and filter. I think the filter hasn't been changed in the last three years. Yikes! Rotella 15W-40 is fairly cheap at Tractor Supply. So far, they have been 15% cheaper on service items lke fluids, batteries, hoses, etc. than NAPA.
On to the transmission...
I have a late shift issue which will only upshift at redline which is about 30mph and 50mph. I pulled the governor just for fun and it seemed fine. I checked it according to the TM. It had .020" clearance at both ends. The valve did seem alittle gummy but not enough to make me think it would hang up. I cleaned it up and worked the valve, hope this makes a difference.
Then I dropped the pan to change the fluid and filter. When I removed the filter, the kickdown solenoid dropped and hung by it's wire
It seems that the four spotwelds that hold it to the flange which bolts to the valvebody have snapped. I hope this is the source of my redline only shift problems. Won't have one till the end of the week. I will use this opportunity to clean 29 years worth of sludge on the trans pan.