thanx ponyracer,
my mechanic had me unplug the MLP/TR and blow it out with compressed air and then put a good amount of dielectric grease in it. at first it didn't work but, the next day when i drove it the shifting problem was gone. could the electronics in the "brain" have taken a couple restarts to reset itself? will be changing the fuel filter and completly servicing the tranny this thursday. will advise after. thanx again!