On the tranny shifts, as Gilly mentions, the vac modulator controls the firmness. Check the hose connection, they can disconnect fairly easily.
Also, the control pressure cable from the throttle to the trans controls the shift points (also the kickdown switch behind the gas pedal). Make sure the cable is connected and properly adjusted at the throttle linkage (should just have no slack at the idle position). Good shift behavior is essential to simulating adequate power on those baby-Benz engines.

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Prost!