shifting issue and wont start

[hv2work]

I’m new to this forum thing so please be nice to me.

Problem #1 I have a 1990 Voyager 3.3 – would not shift out of lower gear – stayed at 4 – 5K RPM. Read a number of threads and still am confused. Solenoid pack? Electrical or mechanical? Having problem explaining to parts folks. They seem not to understand the solenoid pack term, is there another term used? They keep coming back with a Ignition Coil Pack price - which could be my problem as well – I’ll explain in the next part of this problem.

I also read someone mentioning a TCM. Torque Control (converter) module? Parts folks drew a blank.
Also read that the problem is internal of the transmission.

Any info. Is welcomed.

Problem #2. The van died on the freeway doing 50 mph (would not take it above that because of the high RPM). It turns over (no knock or anything) but will not start. When it stopped, there was a slight puff from the exhaust and there was a very strong electrical smell inside the van ( to the point of maybe a fire?). I have not yet looked to see if there is a spark or if the rocker arms are moving, i.e electrical or timing chain problem.

I have read about distributor issues, something about a plastic part inside the distributor. Also possible main computer issue or the Ignition Coil Pack I intend to eliminate the timing chain first before getting into the electrical. If electrical, where do I start first?

Van is dead at the moment and I really need this as a second vehicle. Bought it very cheep (under $1K) so debating whether to let it go and buy another or if simple – fix this. It is in great shape otherwise, a scale of 1-5 for a used car, I would rate it as a 4.

Please help

Hv2work