Poor Acceleration At High Speed
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 GMC Yukon XL, 2002 GMC Sierra, 2002 Chevrolet Suburban, and 2002 Chevrolet Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
If the stator is locked up at all times, performance is normal when accelerating from a standstill. Engine RPM and vehicle speed are limited or restricted at high speeds. Visual examination of the converter may reveal a blue color from overheating.
If the converter has been removed, you can inspect the stator roller clutch by inserting a finger into the splined inner race of the roller clutch and trying to turn the race in both directions. You should be able to freely turn the inner race clockwise, but you should have difficulty in moving the inner race counterclockwise or you may be unable to move the race at all.