jpm_22_80

OK, I've got a 98 Max SE. My tranny(or torque converter) is locked up when the car is cold and the motor will stall when you put it in gear. I have eliminated everything I can think of, checked for codes, etc., and everything seems fine. I believe the torque converter is locked up. If I give it some throttle to keep the engine running it will be OK after a couple minutes. It definetly strains the motor to keep it running through that stage, as I can only maintain about 500-700rpm's with my foot to the floor!! Anyone have any clues why it would be locking up like that?? I know the TC has an electric lockup solenoid. Does anyone know how I may be able to disconnect that electrically or jump something in the harness to keep it unlocked? Am I even on the right track? Any help would be appreciated. I'm a marine mechanic and fairly well versed in auto repair, but this is driving me nuts.

PS- anybody know the average cost of getting a Max tranny rebuilt? I'd hate to have to bring my car to a shop(never done that before), but that's what it's coming down to.