wont shift unless restarted

[Dmitri]

i got a 97 f350,when i start it, let it warm up and everything and start driving it wont shift into second gear unless i pull the shifter into second, then it will shift, but it will not shift past the second gear.now when i pull over shut the engine off and start it again its a compeltley different truck, shift fine where its its sepose to and seems to have more power as well.
has anybody had this problem before, is it common at all
i know its impossible telling without looking at it, but just thought id shoot in the dark.
thank you for everyones help

[pinkfloyd]

I'm not sure but I think the e40d is electronically controlled solenoids.If it works after you restart it to me that sounds electrical. If not at least here's a