97 escort transmission

I got a 97 2.0 auto trans, It shifts real hard from 1st to 2nd, all other gears shift nice and smooth, it downshifts nice also, is this electrical? can I make ajustments? Do you think an additive would help? Ive changed the filter and fluid but still the same, any ideas? NO TRANNY SHOPS!!!!

Doesn't sound good, if it is an automatic I'd say the clutches are burnt.

A harsh 1-2 shift could be caused by the throttle valve control actuating cable broken or out of adjustment. 1-2 accumulator piston stuck or too fast an idle speed.

Yes an electrical solenoid controls the shift. Worn clutch pack fibers will make it shift hard. An additive may help and then again may not.