[rotorwrench]

What type ATF does it have in it? Do you know if the two clutch packs were changed and if so what type of clutch linings went back in? Did is get new band linings or replacements of either drum?

Shifting is controlled by the throttle valve so pressures should be checked to verify they are at least close to specs. It just depends on whether shifts are sloppy or harsh with jolting lock up. Adjusting the throttle valve may make the difference if done properly and with care. A person has to make note of where they start from before adjusting the TV control rod. There could also be a problem with one of the clutch pack hydraulic circuit seals leaking. The bands generally hang on pretty good if properly adjusted but slippage in the front clutch pack is a different story. The front clutch is for all forward gears. The rear clutch is for reverse and in unison with high gear. The two bands can have leaky servos or the band friction material may have a problem. The two drums may also have a problem if there is any slippage. They can get scored or crack so a person has to look them over for serviceability and replace what ever isn't up to specs. The cast iron cases can crack as well.

The originals Borg Warner designs had a combination of steel and bronze clutch plates. These may have been replaced with modern composition linings at overhaul. Some of the new type packs don't have the same dimensional thickness of stack up as the original parts so it takes adjustments to make them fit and work properly. A person has to know these old units pretty well to be ready for problems like this.

Band adjustment is similar to a valve tappet adjustment. A slotted threaded shaft with a jam nut is all they have. The front band calls out for a gauge block to tighten against to torque spec then back it off & jam it. The rear band is tighten to torque spec then backed off & jam it. Ford used tools that break away at proper torque but a torque wrench can also be used as long as a person knows the torque to tighten them to. They should not come loose. Even tappet adjusters rarely come loose. A pall nut may work if a person can find the correct sizes to lock the jam nuts.