No start in Neutral or park

[paris89]

I have a 99 ford 5.4L Expy. Car won't fully go into park and will not start in neutral either. I have already replaced the shift linkage adjuster & the shift lever prior to this issue, since they were damaged. I have checked the shift linkage adjuster and the 2 shift bracket bolts (T30) knowing that they do come loose every now and then. Indicator reads park but, the vehicle still rolls on its own. When shifting into neutral and then attempting to start, nothing happens. Already tried to jump start while in neutral, still nothing. I have source voltage at starter and battery. I'm thinking it might be something mechanical. ANY SUGGESTIONS?

 

[stamp11127]

How did the linkage get damaged?

Have you gone through the gears trying to start it with a helper by slowly moving the linkage from one gear to the other while the helper holds the ignition switch on start? Better to be on stands if it should start in gear.

You may think it is in neutral mechanically but the range selector isn't adjusted accordingly.

The other option would be to troubleshoot according to the factory service manual, which is available on ebay for cheap.

 

[paris89]

My daughter somehow got under the dash and pulled on it, braking the white bracket for the adjuster linkage. I have tried starting the car in all gears positions but not holding the ignition switch the whole time. I'll try that ASAP.

 

[paris89]

Also, while shifting there is some sort of grinding noise present under the dash area (not the actual transmission) that's why I am thinking there is a mechanical issue.

 

[stamp11127]

That is how we tested the switches at work. Be prepared in case it does start in gear, don't want you adding a door opening where one wasn't. Also no one around to get hurt. Also check the wiring by the steering column, she may have done more damage than you thought.

 

[BAD RONALD]

My daughter somehow got under the dash and pulled on it, braking the white bracket for the adjuster linkage...

???