Very stupid problem and question!

Again, common, common, common. Check your linkage and let it roll; if you really want higher shift points left in automatic mode, your going to need to drop your tail shaft and work on the governor weights check out A&A they sell replacements rated for different points. For me it's not worth the trouble.. I like to use the handle to shift when I'm getting on it.

If the linkage looks good then I'll be in the same boat as you. I don't mind using the handle but it gets a little risky with column shift.