Update:
Installed the BTO TV kit. Seems to function more in the realm of normal, but this transmission clearly needs more work. I'm still running with the light spring removed from the gov. Car does 1-2 okay,(15mph) 2-3 is shaky and early, but 3-4 is okay(in 4th at about 36). Prior to the BTO kit it was in 4th easily at 30 and detent downshifts were real strange. Previously every shift was form and recognizable, these are all a bit softer than I remember. Car does good burnouts.
I pressure tested it. My #'s were the same with both the TV cable connected and disconnected. It did have strong pressure increases in the full TV test. Bow Tie said the #'s were good. They said their transmission would perform slightly different, but mine was in good range(too lazy to go upstairs right now and get the #'s. I'll post them later).
So I have a friend of a friend that has his 2004r laying around from his 85' SS. He swapped in years ago in favor of the 7004r. So I will have the opportunity to buy the valve body, governor and any other parts pretty cheap.
I think installing a valve body at this point is beyond my level. Could I pull if off? Yes. But I would rather this job but handled by a professional in a professional setting, not by me, the first timer working in his garage with jackstands and no lift Anyhow communicating my issue to these transmission people is the hardest part. I've been in contact with Bow Tie, Competition transmission(the builder) and another local shop. Convincing them that this valve body is the main problem is tough. Mine is so off the chart being a 4.3 TBI, 2.41 rear end car. They're used to dealing with SS's, 442's, GN's. At worst a 307 Regal or base 305 Chevy. A rebuild kit on that with a few minor upgrades and your average bro just romping on the gas pedal with his newly installed 350 won't notice the difference. My car being a 4.3 TBI, 2.41 rear end car is just so off that charts. I've entered territory where I've done so much research and hands on work that I'm becoming more knowledgeable than the people I depend on.
I believe that valve body would need to be rebuilt/serviced from sitting. Who do i trust to do that? If I'm convincing a local guy to it, will it get done properly? Do I buy his core and just get that rebuilt? Thought would be great.