Reinstalling the stock converter fixed the problem. Factory drain plug allowed me to flush out the clutch deposits. The shifts don't seem that much firmer, but I was not able to really get on it as I was just cruising around on Memphis side streets. Don't really want to go wide open from a standstill either. I want the 7 1/4 to survive until the 8.8 is built. I would be interested in comparing the mods done on a Tf2 kit, but I haven't seen the instructions posted anywhere.
