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I have a 2001 F250 Super Duty. The shift tube was very sloppy and got to the point where I couldn't start the truck unless I put it in neutral. I have replace the entire shift tube and the bushings and the straps that hold it in place. Since I replaced it, I cannot get it to go into 1st gear. The rest works just as it should, it is tight (but smooth) again, and I can start it in Park and Neutral as it should be able to do. I have tried adjusting the cable at the transmission a couple different times and still makes no difference. I can manually shift the transmission through all the gears no problem, not hard to move at all. I took the column back apart and checked to make sure I had the shift tube in properly and it seems like it can only go in one position, doesn't seem like there is a lot of movement that would cause it to not go into 1st gear.
Any thoughts on anything else I can do to get this fixed so I can use all the gears.
Out of my wheelhouse here, but I'm thinking if adjusting the cable at the trans does nothing, the problem is there. Spinning that wheel around should do something.
I have the EXACT same problem after doing the EXACT same work.
My conclusion is that we need to loosen the clamp for the cable on the column, then adjust the cable on the trans such that it shifts all the way into first gear, then tighten the cable on the column. Might take some trial and error adjustments, but I believe this approach will solve our problem.
Please, though, if someone else knows for certain how to accomplish this re-adjustment, LET US KNOW.
BTW... I rarely use 1st gear, and have simply lived with this issue for about 2 years now, and I'm ready to get it put to bed once and for all!
sorry you are having the same problem. Nice to know I am not crazy though. I use first a fair amount as I plow with this truck and am in an area that it is easier and safer to use 1st than staying in drive. I will have to try another method if I can't get this fixed.
I have no doubt that a transmission shop can fix it for us, but I'm just not willing to pay someone the money for an hour or so of my own time, especially if I can actually accomplish it!