Hi guys, 1st time poster. I wanna keep it real brief, kinda get to the issue. I've seen several others posts bout similar probs, so maybe someone can help.

I have a 96 Galant S. Stock eng/trans. No changes. I purchased this car knowing it had a undiagnosed issue with the trans possibly. I drove it a 1/4 mi and saw for myself. The Galant would not shift out of 1st, it seemed almost stuck in 1st. The engine revved, close to 4000rpms. Just wouldn't shift to second.

I've asked around and I've gotten everything from "It's an o2 sensor in the trans. needing replacement" to "Take the governor off and it should be fine" to the most recent and most likely from the sound and who its coming from(an import familiar mechanic) - "It's an electrical solenoid possibly gone out, which you'll have to remove the trans and replace the entire valve body AND solenoid which will run like 300-400 dollars".

Has anyone had a similar problem? I'm not really worried about the 300-400 cost, but, it seems kinda weird I could potentially replace the entire trans for close to the same cost for the cost of replacing a solenoid/valve body. I just want to figure out what the issue is because my only other option is my gas guzzling Chevy lowrider which has its own transmission issues(gears stripping/slipping from 1st to 3rd).

Any advice, suggestions or feedback on possible given diagnosis gladly appreciated.

- J