sengland

I need some help to determine if this is just how these 4 speeds shift or if there is something wrong with my tranny. I have an 02 4wd with only 60,000 mi. It has always done this and I have put about 20,000 miles on this 4runner. In a town with 25mph speed limits everywhere here is what I experience. When coming up to speed i must get up to 32-33 mph around 2300 rpm before it will shift into the next highest gear(i'm assuming 4th). If i do not and just drive between 25-30 mph the tranny stays one gear down(3rd?) and concequently runs at a higher rmp. When I let off and drift (between 25-30), the tranny still stays in the lower gear and when I get back on the gas the rpms go up to match the lower gear. When I let off the gas drifting at 30mph shouldn't the tranny go to 4th? What also is strange is if I come up to speed quickly it does not do this and when I reach 28-30mph it will go to the higher gear and cruse @ 30mph in the highest gear. So is there something wrong or is the nature of this tranny?

Also, local shop with a good reputation said that these trannys are shipped with whale blubber in them so that they shift smooth when new. Is this true?

Thanks for the help.