I have a '97 F-150 4.6L two wheel drive with 215,000 miles. I have to put it in N to start. I had to ram it into park before to start but now it will only start in N. Do I have linkage problems or brake-shift interlock switch problems, There seems to be alot of play whatever gear it is in.

 

You may need a new DTR (Digital Transmission Range) sensor, aka TRS (Transmission Range Sensor) sensor, aka Neutral Safety Switch (auto parts stores). Some call it the PRNDL switch although Ford and Ford-trained techs do not.

However, it might just be loose linkage with too much slop in it to properly engage the PARK position and to close the switch for the starting circuit. Common problems include loose shift cable bolts (Torx-head) under the dash and the cable housing coming loose from its mounts.

Stick your head under there and check it out before replacing any parts.

Steve

 

there is a couple of bolts on the steering column holding the shift linkage on. one or more of them have came loose. Happened to me on my 97 van. My brother inlaw a transmission tech at aamco fixed it for me. He said its a common problem.

 

There are a variety of TSB's written for these series of trucks concerning the Shift Lever, and Column. The TSB's had been issued almost immediately after 1997, and include almost all F-150,Exp series bodies. The majority of them concern the shift linkage coming loose or disconnecting at either end of the linkage. I had a recent incident where my linkage broke and shifted the vehicle into reverse; while under power. The truck went from drive directly into reverse and the truck backed into another car "totaling" the other car.
Lucky that no one was hurt or killed.
If you are handy you should replace the linkage cable from the column to the Transmission. There is a very weak coupling unit at the transmission that can only be replaced through cable replacement.
Peaz, and Good Luck

 

Actually, there were two RECALLS relating to the shifter cable on certain vehicles, not TSBs...

Steve

 

I can't seem to find any information on where the TRS Sensor is located. I am fairly mechanically inclined, and would replace it myself, but need some guidance. Any help is appreciated...

George

 

The TRS is not your problem. The TRS is on the driver's side of the trans, where the shift cable attaches. It's the part with the wiring harness.

Your problem is the shift tube is either loose from the steering column, or the bushings in the tube are worn. Most likely it is the two Torx head bolts under the steering column that hold the tube to the column. They frequently loosen and cause this problem.

 

Unfortunately, I slid under the truck and found the TRS to be rusty and real sloppy. There is a yellow plastic piece that the slide "rod" attaches too and it appears to be worn badly. A mechanic wants between $150 - $200 to replace the TRS. This seems kind of pricy to me when it looks like it is a straight remove and replace part. From what I can see, it is just two bolts and the electrical connection to deal with. Comments?