Ford Repair: Explorer Gear Shift Problems, case diagnosis, shift linkage

Question
Steve,
I see from your expertise that you're familiar with some transmission questions, so I thought I'd give this one a shot.

My '96 Explorer XLT V8 with 90K miles recently started having gear shifting problems, only between 1st and 2nd gear. Beyond 2nd gear, it seems to be fine. I've found 2 ways to get around it...accelerate in 1st up to ~4K RPM at which point it will shift, or accelerate in 1st up to ~2.5K RPM and then ease off the accelerator at which point it will shift. Transmission fluid level and color are both fine. This car was in a front end accident 18 months ago, with little engine damage...but that may be contributing.

I took it to a local shop and got the worst-case diagnosis that I need a new transmission (est ~$3.5K). I was hoping it would only require a shift linkage adjustment or something much smaller than complete replacement. Based on what you know and the limited info I've supplied, are there options I should explore other than transmission replacement? Are there questions I should be asking to determine whether replacing the transmission is the right call? Thanks...  

Answer
Reid-

  My guess is that the transmission itself will need some work.  I don't think a full replacement is in order, but I would have a dedicated transmission shop look at it.  It could be something as simple as a modulator valve or something as bad as worn bands and/or clutches.  So you'd run the gauntlet from a simple repair to at least a rebuild.  And even if you do need a rebuild, it should cost quite a bit less than $3.5K.  Hope this helps.

Steve