Transmission problems

I am dealing with a very weird transmission situation. I just purchased this 240d transmission and it is acting up. I have ran a lot of rest and have come to the conclusion that the transmission is on the way out.

I have tested all vacuum including vcv and modulator. Modulator holds vacuum and is receiving vacuum. Vcv valve drops to 0 from right about 15 when the spring is compressed and gauge is connected appropriately.

The car does not have EGR valve the manifold may have been changed because it is not blocked off and the vacuum diagram pictures EGR.

So here is my question, I have been driving it with the vacuum blocked off from the brake booster check valve there are two ports one is going to the cabin the other I have blocked off. If I connect vacuum the car shifts up to second then slips very badly. Unless I select S and switch to D in fourth the car slips very badly in fourth.

With vacuum disconnected the car shifts hard and late. First to second right about seventeen mph, second to third is not so bad right around thirty mph. Going into fourth is awful right around fifty five to fifty seven some times sixty mph to get to fourth and it stresses the engine.

So I just would like some input. Can anyone shine some light on this situation? The linkage is messed up too someone did not adjust it correctly. The firewall bracket with the two bolts and the white ball is on the way out so I have ordered one of those.

My second question is this. Can I keep the vacuum blocked off and drive it the way I have been? Or will that cause more damage. Also, is it possible to switch this 722.117 that runs off of vacuum with a pre 1980's that shifted by Bowen rod/connector rod? Any input would be greatly appreciate. I only paid $800.00 for the car the body is in amazing condition no rust interior is great. I would like to see what my options are. Thanks in advance.