Transmission won't go into Park

[gonexplorin96]

I have a 96 explorer 4.0 4x4 automatic and when I try to put it in park it won't go past reverse. It thinks it's in park because I can remove the key and shut the engine off. What could be going on?

 

[chefduane]

Perhaps it is going into park but the PRNDL indicator needs adjusting. Are any of the other shift indicators off? If so, there is a white plastic adjusting wheel at the base of the steering column that can be used to adjust the indicator. Search the site for shift indicator adjustment.

 

[Turdle]

I hope this helps.

https://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=219144

 

[koda2000]

There are 2 gold colored torx bolts that hold the shifter to the steering column. They tend to become lose over time and can even fall out. When these bolts are loose they cause the situation you're experiencing. I suggest you remove the bolts (one at a time) apply a thread locker and reinstall them. This is a common problem. Left unchecked you can eventually break the shifter bracket.

If you find the bolts are in place and tight, it could be the PRNDL indicator cable needs adjusting or it's bracket is broken. There's a thumb wheel located on the cable to adjust it and if the bracket is broken many have reported fixing it by installing a wire tie.

 

[gatzdon]

I hope this helps.

https://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=219144

This. Drove me nuts until I read that thread. Tightened up the two bolts and all was better.

 

[gonexplorin96]

This. Drove me nuts until I read that thread. Tightened up the two bolts and all was better.

Thank you for the thread! That bolt is the same one that dropped onto the floor. How did you fix it? Do you have to take off that metal knee plate behind the plastic one?

 

[gatzdon]

Thank you for the thread! That bolt is the same one that dropped onto the floor. How did you fix it? Do you have to take off that metal knee plate behind the plastic one?

I just lined things back up and screwed the bolts back in.

Sucks to lay down on the floor and get up in there. Needed a flashlight too.

 

[gonexplorin96]

I just lined things back up and screwed the bolts back in.

Sucks to lay down on the floor and get up in there. Needed a flashlight too.

Just did it last night. Now I can start in park, have full range in gears, and the shifting is tight! Thank yall for the help.