They are convenient at times, but while towing I find myself under throttling to keep it from kicking down a gear. I like to lug a bit, but give it a little more pedal and verooooom she kicks into a higher gear. Since Trans swaps are expensive and time consuming. Is there any kind of mod that can be done to go through the gears manually? I don't even know what wide open throttle is. If I go that far it will go into a lower gear and rev up like crazy.

Joe, I am in town but do not have very good internet access.  If you give me a call at 2083293848 we can set up a time to meet.