Hello everyone. I'm new to Volvos and I heard that this was the place to get any questions I may have answered. I just got a 91 740 DL with an auto trans (about 175k mi) and I have a couple questions about it. First, the transmission shifts pretty hard from 1st to 2nd and from 2nd to 3rd gears. I've been playing with the kick down adjustment and the way that I accelerate, and it's a bit better, but still quite noticable. I've heard that this is a pretty routine problem to have, but I'd like to know if it is something to really worry about and, if so, it is something that is easily (cheaply) repaired?
The only other problem with the car is that the speedometer is not functional. I looked at the VSS and the wires had been ripped out. Is there a "best way" to test the VSS unit, wires, and speedo to make sure everything is still okay? I have a good multimeter, I'd just like to know where to start. Also, do the wires need to be plugged in a certain way? the weatherpac connector is completely destroyed, so it's pretty worthless as far as a reference.

thanks,
jack