My dad has a 2001 E-250 with the 4R70W transmission with 4.2L V6, the issue he's having is when shifting from "Park" to "Drive", it seems to stick between neutral and drive until you move the shift lever a little for it to engage drive. I did not get any transmission codes when running a scanner. He just had it taken to an auto shop to fix a separate issue with the ignition switch on the column because it wouldn't go into gear when running. From what I was told, the shop replaced 7 switches in the steering column? They replaced the neutral switch on the transmission and claimed to have adjusted the shift cable to the transmission. I'm sorry for the jumbled story but I need advice on if the shift linkage can be adjusted, and what I could do to help with the issue of shifting from park to drive. I've looked around the forum for some information but no luck.

 

Of course shifter cables are adjustable....I just did a quick internet search and here's some diagrams and instructions for a Crown Vic. I imagine the concept and procedure would be virtually identical for a van.

1994 Ford Crown Victoria Diagrams picture | SuperMotors.net

Good luck,
George

 

Thank you George for the diagram link, I'll give it a try tomorrow and post results!

 

Ok so update on the van, I made adjustments to the thumb wheel under the steering column and the shift lever on the transmission. I also had to recalibrate the position that the electronic relay the manual transmission lever is connected to. It shifts great now like normal!

 

I also have 5 codes to troubleshoot on it that are P1406, P0172, P0174, P0302 and P0303. I think a tune up with new plugs and wires with a coil pack will take care of the misfire codes and I'll check my egr and vacuum lines for the other three codes. If anyone has any tips or pointers on these codes please let me know.

 

Thanks for checking in and good luck with the other codes and stuff.

And keep your eye on the intake manifold and head gaskets on that engine. We just had a guy who spent a LONG time documenting a great camper build for us nuke a 4.2 by cranking it against a cylinder full of coolant. Keep your eye on the coolant level.

Good luck,
George