1989 XLT extended cab transmission issues

[Donniebbig]

Hi everyone, I've been here before asking a similar question.
My 1989 with the 2.9 V6 is having transmission issues. It's downshifting late and I've noticed that in reverse, if I'm on an incline it seems to slip a little.
I was told on this forum that the vacuum shift modulator needs replaced.
Now someone else is telling me that the transmission is failing because the modulator has nothing to do with reverse.
Notable points -
1) the truck only has 137k on it and was owned by an older gentleman who took really good care of it.
2) The shifting issue and reverse issue started at the same time.

Any input is appreciated

 

[rusty ol ranger]

The late downshift could be the modulator valve shot or out of adjustment.

The slipping reverse is something more serious. Im not real familar with the A4LD but i believe it uses a reverse band...that may need adjusted or reverse is going out.