I have an 88 190D 2.5 with an auto trans that seems to shift directly almost from first to 4th on takeoff unless I shift it manually. if I put the gas pedal to the floor while traveling there is no trans kickdown to a lower gear. Any ideas?

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There is a control pressure cable that controls WHEN the trans will shift. Sounds like this cable is disconnected or broken.
It connects to the accel linkage.

the cable is connected at both ends and when I pull on it it has a slight tension but not much. anything else I might check? could it be just far out of adjustment? should I take it to the dealer for this or a specialty shop or a trans shop? thanks for any advice anyone might have.