There are a couple of ways to do what I just suggested (set the kickdown). You may get a few more suggestions. This is what has worked for me.

Since the trans has been out, I don't know if you've kept track of parts or not but you need something (a spring) to hold the kickdown forward (toward the radiator) until the throttle pin pushes it back. It is a really light spring.

Also you can "drive" a car without the kickdown but "drive" more or less means move it around some. Some people have gone rather long distances without a kickdown setup properly. Unless you were out doing burnouts, I don't think I'd worry too much about that 1/4 mile or so around your hose.