I just picked up a 79 that is pretty decent shape. Needs a little TLC here and there but shouldn't take to much to make it a work truck and wheeler. A couple I need some help with is the selector (not sure of exact name) in the steering column will not allow the truck to go into park. I can select the rest of the gears just fine just won't move all the way up. I have seen this problem before on a 77 ford and know it can be fixed but should i fix it or just put a automatic floor shifter in? If so has anyone ever done this and if so how hard is it? Also I have a bit of rust around the rear wheel wells my plan for now is to cut it out till i decide if I want to put on new panels. Any advice on trimming these out before I go nuts with the sawzall and cutter?

 

There is an adjustment nut on the shift linkage, where it bolts to the trans!

 

I took a look at the linkage today and it appears that it may be the problem. Need advice and direction before I start messing with it.