Steering column and ignition issues

ADRIAN DUCZAK

MEMBER
2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER
V6
AUTOMATIC
113,884 MILES

I would had my blinker break apart and my shifting leaver snap together and when I got to the Pick-n-Pull I was informed my model was both cheaper and easier to change the steering column. So I did. Before I changed it the ignition still worked and I could start the vehicle but not take it out of park. Now that I have changed the column the blinker works I can change gears but my gear indicator is off the chart to the right of first gear and I cannot get the thing to start. Power to the car is present all the way up to but not including starting. There is no engine rev in attempt to start. Full gas. Under hood is in great condition.

3 Replies

JIS001

MECHANIC
3,408 POSTS

Try to adjust the indicator. Skipping some steps and pictures since you already removed the column you should understand the procedure.

Remove the lower cover and remove the column covers.

Here is the rest of the procedure:

Remove the upper steering column shroud.
Rotate the gearshift lever clockwise until it bottoms out (first gear), then rotate it counterclockwise three detents (D position).
Hang a 1.4 kg (3 lb) weight on the gearshift lever.

Rotate the thumbwheel to center the selector lever indicator in the middle of the D position.
Remove the 1.4 kg (3 lb) weight.
Rotate the gearshift lever into each detent to verify that the selector lever indicator matches the selected range. Readjust, if necessary

Hopefully that helps you out. Let us know how it goes.

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