98 3.0L XLT 4R44E 447k miles. Have searched several forums and read many posts about VB sep plate gaskets etc but most describe symtoms like 2nd/3rd shift flares, reverse delays but I can't find anything that addresses strictly forward delay.

Fluid full fresh and good filter, have minor drip from driveshaft seal but other than that all shifts happen when they should, no slipping, no delay in reverse. OD on or off makes no differance. I do have manual braking in 1st gear

Is there a certain valve that might be sticking or would a slow, clogged EPC cause this and would I have to pull the valve body to replace the EPC solenoid

Stangely this started after replacing the water pump but I can't image that has anything to do with this.