'94 K1500 Transmission Problems

Here's the issue. I have a 1994 K1500. In simplest form, the truck is starting in second or third gear, rather than first. I can manually put it in first and it performs fine. Local mechanic said it could be many things but he recommends replacing the entire transmission. I don't have that kind of money right now, so was just curious as to if any of y'all had any ideas as to what my issue could be. Thanks!

Sounds like it may be in limp mode, is this a 4l60e, if so a thorough scan may prove that this could be a solenoid problem. BTW, welcome to the forum. Local mechanic may not be a good source for a proper diagnosis here.

Yes, it is a 4l60e. I read a little bit about limp mode online. Everything I’ve read says to replace solenoid A and B, along with the filter. I ordered those parts and am going to see if those do the trick.

Yes, it is a 4l60e. I read a little bit about limp mode online. Everything I’ve read says to replace solenoid A and B, along with the filter. I ordered those parts and am going to see if those do the trick.
If it works when manually shifted, I don't understand how it can be the solenoids.

Connect a scan tool, see what's really going on. The data stream should be helpful.