It may not actually be shifting really high, just higher than you're used too? Maybe it's finally just shifting correctly? Remember, the IP is governed and the engine cannot over-rev. It can safely run wide open all day, so long as it doesn't overheat, so "shifting really high" wont ever hurt anything.

 

So, I'm back in Boise trying to get Binky' s trans working right and I can't get it right.
I've replaced the TPS, neutral safety switch and installed a new tach sensor. Adjusted to 1.2V and it just won't shift right. I've adjusted the TPS each way and there is no change.
When I drive it, it won't shift out of first without letting off the fuel. It also feels like the torque converter won't release on over run.
The fluid looks good, but smells really bad like an electrical fire.
I brought a rebuilt solenoid body with me, and I'm going to drop the pan and replace it tonight. Anything I need to know before I tear into t?
Also, it makes a buzzy whining sound, like a belt slipping, and twice, a (not loud) grinding sound.
Any more advice?

John

 

Well a grinding sound is never good in a transmission. I guess when you drop the pan you'll see if there are any surprises. I dropped the pan on mine at 55k miles and there was a small amount of metal fuzz on the magnet in the pan and this is supposedly normal. Burnt fluid won't have the proper friction modification characteristics so if you have hope for the mechanical condition of the trans then at least swap out all the fluid, but that is around $200 in ATF and if there are any large chunks of metal in the pan then you might start looking into rebuild options.
Just curious here but I am surprised the ATF would look good but smell horrific. You can take a clean white kleenex or paper towel and wipe the trans dipstick across it and see if there is any particulate left behind. My fluid at 55k was a bit off-red and brownish but did not smell burnt or otherwise nasty. I just checked my new fluid and with only 1k miles it is reddish-clear and almost sweet smelling.

 

I think it's a goner.
I dropped the pan to replace the solenoid pack and there is a significant amount of metal debris. Nothing large, but many flakes. 1, 7mm long, 1mm diam part that looks like part of a needle bearing, or a pin. Either way, it's staying here until I find a good trans shop. I have an Aamco about 6 blocks away, but I don't really think that's my best option. The shop I want to get to is about 25 miles away. I would have to have it towed there.
At least I have my "new" F150 to fall back on. We'll just have to tent it for this summer.