I figured out my harsh down shifts problem. Had nothing to do with vaccuum or really even the TV linkage. It was the idle speed!This motor is supposed to idle at around 425 and mine was idling at over 600. I knew the idle was slow and I thought I had it real low, but obviously I didn't. I dropped the idle to 425 and it shifts fine now.
Again, for the gentleman who's car seems to shift too soon. Lengthen the TV rod.