I had to reinstall the steering column in my 84 F250 that I didn't work on to begin with, and I'm 100% sure how the shift indicator setup gets put back together. I have the white tube/blue string that pulls the needle wrapped underneath the column to the slot where it gets screwed in, but I'm not sure how the loop at the end of the string attaches to shifter collar on the column. There isn't enough slack for it be connected and for the shift position indicator to be in the right place at the same time. Am I missing a part between where the screw goes and the loop in the string? The setup is visible by taking off the plastic collar just below the shifter collar. Thanks a lot.

 

recently replaced my assembly on my 85. Assuming your steering column is the proper one, I would put the loop on the "string" hooked to the stud, THEN position the mounting plate over the hole and insert screw..sliding it to find the right "reading"..

I hope this helps.