1998 Ford Explorer

1998 FORD EXPLORER
193,000 MILES • V8 • AWD • AUTOMATIC
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SHIFTHELP
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Shifter won't go into park enough to start
is there an adjustment for the shift cable?
Nov 24, 2009 at 11:34 AM
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RICKMAR
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 170 POSTS
The adjuster is a small wheel located on the cable's end. It is pretty difficult to get at and see. It looks like this in the sketch below the arrow is pointing to it. It is a small "white-colored" wheel.


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/433905_shift_cable_adjuster_1.jpg

It is located above the gas pedal in the "jungle" of wires etc. To make it easier to reach and see you need to remove the lower panel just below your steering column. Remove the 4 screws holding the plastic panel in place. They are all 7 mm heads (2 are "hidden" under the hood release lever). Then pull back on the "top" of the panel. The panel is held in by (4) tapered bullet nose clips, two on each side.


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/433905_Lower_dash__guard_2_1.jpg

Once that is removed you will need to remove a metal plate. The bolts are also 7 mm heads.


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/433905_metal_guard_1.jpg

Once all that is done (really not thast bad to do) you will be able to get at the adjuster wheel much easier. I am going to put the instructions for that on the second "reply" posting to this one just in case you want to print this info out. Rick
Nov 26, 2009 at 12:30 PM
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RICKMAR
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 170 POSTS
Place the gearshift lever in the (D) position.
Rotate the gearshift lever clockwise until it bottoms out (first gear), then rotate two detents counterclockwise ((D) position).
Hang a 3.6 kg (8 lb) weight on the gearshift lever.
Center the pointer in the middle of the (D) position.
Rotate the thumbwheel located on the bottom of the steering column to adjust the pointer.

Remove the 3.6 kg (8 lb) weight.
Carefully move the gearshift lever from detent to detent and compare with the transmission settings.
Readjust if necessary.
Install the upper instrument panel steering column plate and plastic cover. The tapered bullet nose clips go through 4 small acceptor holes. Finally reattachthe hood release handle with the 7 mm bolts.

Good Luck;
Rick
Nov 26, 2009 at 12:38 PM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.