98 Gear lever issue
 

Hey all new member here with an odd problem. My fathers 98 grand marquis has an interesting problem with the gear lever; when the car is started it cant be moved from park. You have to shift it to neutral start it and then you can shift between all gears but if you put it back in park it stays there. Its the base model with 98ish k on it and before my grandfather gave it to us he had the trans replaced although I have no documents on it. I do all my own work so any opinions/suggestions are welcomed! t.i.a.

This could be caused by a shift tube that is cracked, or bent, or something in the ignition wheel lock mechanism.

A simple thing to try is to spray some TriFlow into the lock cylinder on the column, and cycle the key back and forth (off to run position) while shifting out of park with the engine off.

FYI replaceing the shift tube is not an easy job. Better get the factory service manual and study the procedure before you start.

Let us know how you make out, Bill

thanks bill Ill report back later