904 not quite right after TF-2 install

"Snug" on the front band is 72 in-lbs per the factory manual. But if you're using a 1/4" combination wrench, you probably won't hurt anything by going hand tight. How many turns did you back it off from snug? Somewhere I've seen a chart that gave the number of turns for each kickdown apply lever ratio. This would be the scientific way to set it. But for troubleshooting purposes, I would tighten the front band 1/2 turn and test drive. This should make a difference. If not the band isn't your issue.

As for the thumpy shifts, you drilled all the holes to the max size? IIRC the instructions say this is for "Race" only. HD/street is a smaller hole. You can always make them bigger (kit used to come with extra gaskets for this reason).