no reverse

That is correct, the low/reverse band is not applied in first gear when the shifter is in the Drive position, only when pulled manually into first.

An elements in use chart would look something like this. X = applied


_________________ Rev __ 1st(low) _ 1st(D) _ 2nd __ D

O/R clutch __________________ X _____ X

L/R band ___________ X ______ X

rear clutch __________________ X _____ X ____ X __ X

front clutch _________X _________________________ X

kickdown band ____________________________ X