In the middle of nowhere, my 98 ford w/ 88k miles pulled a new one on me. I shifted into Drive and the engine just revved. It would not move. I shifted back to park and found that it would not go all the way to park. It was actually in park when the gear selector was pointing at Reverse. I moved the lever to Drive again and the same thing, it was in neutral. I then moved it to "2" and it went into drive like normal. I drove this way all day and it was fine. all gears shift ok so something happened to the shift linkage or something, i suppose????

When i park the vehicle, the indicator stops at R, but it is actually in Park. Basically, the shift indicator is off one notch to the right for all gears/settings.

How do i diagnose and fix this problem? Pls advise. I know it won't hurt anything, but i am getting ready to sell it and that won't be viewed well.

 

There is an adjustment at the trans lever under the truck.
Take a look at it.
If it is in park when the selector shows R, then adjust the cable so the dash selector shows park. If not then something is wrong.

 

it is probably the indicator on the cluster. it is like a 20 dollar part. the plastic bracket probably broke.

 

if that 's the case, any info on what is involved in fixing it would be greatly appreciated. is it an easy fix or will this be a challenge? your guidance is appreciated.

 

if it is the indicator, you need to remove the lower bolster panel under the column and the two piece shroud around the column. then remove the tubular brace and lower the cloumn as much as you need for your hands. the indicator mounts on the column with a 5.5 screw and has a loop that attaches to a nipple on the shift arm. as far as removing the old one from the cluster just pry back the side clips and gently remove it by pulling down.