kenn - thanks for the detailed explanation on troubleshooting the vacuum modulated auto tranny...
however...
I made the most basic mistake of becoming overzealous and posting before I had all the facts straight. As it turns out, the research I had done about the tranny problem does NOT pertain to my particular model. I actually have a physical ball and joint arm attached the throttle linkage to regulate shifting.
thanks again, will try not to waste your time in the future...