A bunch of problems! Please help

[88Marquis]

Problem #1
I've read alot of the posts here which discuss Transmission problems for the AOD transmission but have yet to see a symptoms like i'm having. The car shifts from first to second softly then kicks me back from 2nd to 3rd. then shifts between 45 and 55....depending if i keep the accelarator at a steady pace. Anybody know why this is happening?

Problem#2
Seems like low idle. If i just turn the key it doesnt stay on it stalls alot. and i'm forced to press the accelerator to keep it going but in the process of keeping the accelerator steady it idles high than low...then high then low.... Flip flopping.

Problem#3
It has the upper and lower catalytic converters on both sides. And on right side before the lower catalytic i believe there's an emission tube..well that's broke from the exhaust pipe and it's giving me a bad exhaust leak is there a temporary way of fixing this? is my Air pump not feedin the cats with enough air? I was being followed by my buddy one day and he told me he saw black smoke through the exhaust?

Please help guys... I really dont want to let this car go to the scrapper because it was a gift from my father. When i was going thru hard times..yes i can buy another..etc...but it's of sentimental value..anything to help before the shop hits me hard. Thank you.

[fredjacksonsan]

Try rebuild kit for the transmission, 90-110 USD. There's a spring in the transmission valve body for the 1-2 shift, mine was so soft it wouldnt' shift 1/2 the time, once I put in the heavy duty shift kit, it was fine.

Idle probs --- there are lots of previous posts, started by me an others on this one (including the one I just answered near the top of the board) Check them out, I think you'll find your idle answers.

Exhaust leak. You might be able to weld that tube, but overall seems like you may have the opportunity to install a good header system or at least some new pipes. Might want to take it to a reputable exhaust guy to see if can be (legally, in your area) repaired.

My 2 cents, hope it helps.