off the track baby TB habits HELP! :)

Question
Three weeks ago I purchased a horse off the track who had spent the past 10 months in his stall (more or less). He was not making the money so they decided to sell him. His last race was May 2003. I purchased him as a potential hunter/jumper. Upon purchasing him, I have tried to keep it simple; I take him for walks, groom him, graze him etc. I decided to sit on him over the weekend and he was VERY quiet. He is a wonderful horse willing to learn, but has a BAD HABIT! As soon as I shorten my reins he has that bit. From there he elongates his neck and cocks his head. That, as well as getting totally under the bit, are his "moves." I feel like I have no say in what is going on.
I have trained many Warmblood babies, but this is a totally new experience. He has all of these weird mannerisms and I am not sure how to take them. or how to correct them.
He also does a very bazaar skip-up or hop with his hind end while I trot. I have not idea why he is doing this either. I tried a canter just to test the waters and he did it even more at the canter, (I decided he is not ready to canter...not for some time-it was a test). I had him completely vetted upon purchase and he passed all facets of the testing with flying colors, so I am assuming that it is not a medical issue, I am just wondering if he is OK, or if this is common.
I have him in a rubber D and I am not sure if that is the bit for him.
I really want him to reach his potential, but need some guidance with his head issues. I would also love any other advice that you would like to give as far as owning an OTT TB.
Please advise me. I look forward to your response!
Best Regards,
Abbie

Answer
Dear Abbie,
I wish I could be more help, but will not be able to.  as you know horses are like people, each one a complete individual.  There is no standard answer.  perhaps consulting with another trainer who typically works with OTT TB can be of assistance.  ReRun.com is a retirement foundation for TB that might be able to provide other information. best wishes, Lora Brown