Make sure you check the linkage bellcrank for slop on the shaft.

Goerend transmissions has a good youtube video showing how to replace the plastic bushings.

 

Replaced TPS, 130 later, and after a 10 minute install, truck shifts like brand new!!!!, thanks for all the help eveyone! No more unlocking od. There is a god

 

I used to get so frustrated with my first '96. If I had known that these transmissions are actually decent and generally it's an electronic issue the majority of the time, I wouldn't have spent a fortune at a transmission shop that didn't know what they were doing. Installing a good converter and shift kit, maybe adding a cooler, you'll have a life long truck. They have several 96-98 2500 and 3500's at the state garage up here, some with big utility, paint striping, plows and many different aftermarket body's all over 200k on the stock tranny. Still going strong. When you start adding HP, you'll need to upgrade the converter. When overdrive is on it will shred the stock converter eventually. Just one man's opinion.

I noticed after changing my TPS and TV cable, it shifted smoother and more responsive. Locked up sooner too and didn't search for a gear as much. Glad you got it taken care of. Maybe you can help someone else now when they're pulling their hair out.