Replacing transmission neutral switch

LARRYK335

MEMBER
2004 FORD F-350
6.8L
V10
2WD
AUTOMATIC
166,000 MILES

Transmission neutral switch has two 8mm bolts that hold it on the transmission. The shift lever is on the back side of the switch and there is no 15mm bolt holding the switch lever to the transmission range sensor. I took the two 8mm bolts off but am not able to take the trans range sensor off. It is stuck on the post. After you quit laughing could you maybe tell me how I am suppose to get the old range sensor off. I want to replace it. This is a puzzle. Thanks for your help.

5 Replies

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
13,011 POSTS

It should just slide off. However it has likely bonded in place from rust between the shaft and interior of the switch. About the only way to get it free will be to get a pry tool between the shift lever and the inner area of the switch and pry it off. Do not try to pry it from the outside against the case as you could cause damage inside the transmission where the shift lever acts on the internal parts. Then use some emery paper to polish the shaft, then coat it with a bit of silicone grease or never-seize to keep moisture out of the replacement.

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Monday, April 30th, 2018 AT 11:09 PM

LARRYK335

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5 POSTS

Thanks, I appreciate your help.

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Tuesday, May 1st, 2018 AT 10:48 AM

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
13,011 POSTS

Living in a rust belt state means you get real good at removing stuck, rusted parts. Did you get the switch off to replace it?

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Tuesday, May 1st, 2018 AT 12:06 PM

LARRYK335

MEMBER
5 POSTS

Yes, I did not want to break anything and your answer showed me that I was doing the right thing. I got some antifreeze stuff that helped me break the part loose. If it does not rain tomorrow I will get under there and clean up that shaft and put the new transmission range sensor on. And I will treat it with some sort of anti-seize. Thanks again for your help.

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Wednesday, May 2nd, 2018 AT 10:59 PM

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
13,011 POSTS

Yeah rust is always fun. I am so used to repairing broken bolts/studs that I will break them off just to save the time on the attempt to remove them. If you intend on doing much work on a vehicle that is "aged" you may want to look at a cordless impact, the newer ones work pretty well on breaking loose stubborn bolts.