Steering column gear shift

[PocolocoBob]

I have a 99 XLT, the gear shift on the steering column seems to be disconnected. Does anybody know what I can do myself? I can't shift at all right now.

 

[bedrck46]

check under the vehicle and look at the shifter on the transmission make sure everything is connected Don't try to shift anything by hand unless you block the wheels so the vehicle doesn't move.

 

[secondechomatt]

Roll under the dash and check the shifter where it connects to the cable. There are also two brass bolts, make sure those are tight.

 

[bedrck46]

also check the brake position switch located just above the brake pedal it can cause you not to be able to shift. Also check fuse #6 and #15 under dash Check it with a meter not just by looking at it

 

[PocolocoBob]

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[PocolocoBob]

I'm a knucklehead, I just posted my reply then wanted to see what the exclamation point icon was for. I think I just reported myself for an innappropriate post. LOL.

Anyway, I tightened the two cable bolts. They were loose but I don't think they were the problem. I don't think it's the brake switch or fuses because the shift lever is still very loose and wobbly. Also, when I move the shift lever the part that the two cable bolts go into flexes alot. Could it be something in the steering column? I don't want to open it without knowing what to expect.

 

[bedrck46]

If you don't think its the brake switch or fuses and you haven't taken the time to check them Then I am sorry for wasting my time trying to help you

 

[secondechomatt]

Just drop the column and inspect it. It's super easy. 4 bolts and you're there. I think I even put a how-to together on one of my threads. I had to do it this summer. Plan on a half hour or so.

 

[TheHerd10]

I had the same issue in my 2001 XLT. The shifter wouldn't go into park without me forcefully trying to push it into park over and over again until it engaged. I actually broke the shift tube assembly in half. I replaced it my self and it wasn't all that complicated and I am not a mechanic by any stretch of the imagination. remove the plastic cover from the top of your steering column and take out the 4 screws under the steering column to loosen the steering column cover top so you can see what you are looking at.It may just be the plastic covers that go between the shift tube and the support brackets but you won't know until you look in there to see what you are dealing with. Hope this helps.

 

[Kermit]

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[FordandPolaris]

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GFa5maYbW8I

Make sure to check these. I know they have been mentioned but they are almost always the cause. It's very possible that one has fallen completely out and is now missing. It needs to have two.