I have a 1998 f150 4wd. The gear selector is loose and will not engage in park without forcing it into park. Also, it will not start in park. I have to shift it into neutral. If anybody has an suggestions, it would be very helpful.

 

There is a pair of Torx-head screws that like to come loose back up under the steering column that are part of the shifter linkage.

Look there first.

 

and the safety switch probably went out is why you hve to start in neutral

 

Nah, probably just too much slop to get the DTR sensor to line up in PARK.

Here's a posting on the other forum about a 95 that has a great photo. YOur 98 should be similar.

http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/83...ml#post7606371

Of course, if the lever keeps getting forced, something else will get busted.

 

There are 3 sets of Torx screws that are known to get loose, and the shifter mechanism itself is known to break. Click the tan CV in my signature & read the caption of the 1st diagram in the Steering Column album.

 

thanks for all the help. i will give these options a try and hopefully one of them will work.

 

I had the same problem on my 99. had the loose screw problem. I ended up replacing the "shift tube" and bushings to completely solve the problem. To do this you have to remove 4 bolts under the dashboard and remove the plastic steering column cover and knee bolster. Then lower the steering column down and let it rest on the seat. At this point it is clear to see the the components. The parts are cheap and it will shift between positions like new..

 

It's just loose screws. They all do it. Even the F-250's and F-350's.
Ya have to lay in the floor in front of the seat and reach up into the dash to get them. They are torx head. Get them super tight, and they won't come loose again. I've had to do it on my '97 F-150 and my uncles '00 V10 F-250.

 

Best to loctite them.

 

Thanks, it was the loose torx screws. Works like a champ now.