what's wrong and can I fix it myself?
Asked by rdtcak Oct 25, 2015 at 12:00 PM about the 1987 Ford F-150
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
Turned ignition switch, steering wheel unlocked, heard faint click, nothing else, started with solenoid, but gear shift won't release. replaced ignition lock and cylinder, doing same thing.
3 Answers
There should be a brake/shift over-ride slot somewhere on the steering column. Most often it is a small slot, sometimes with a plastic cover which can be removed, sometimes under the column. If you have the owners manual it may explain how to over ride the system. If not, check the net, there should be some videos on how to over ride the brake/shift feature.
Are you parked on a slight incline? If so, have someone rock the vehicle back and forth while you try to shift out of park, but do not overly force the attempt. Note: If ever you find yourself having to park on an incline (even a small one) apply the parking brake forcefully first, before shifting into park. If not, the vehicle will roll ever so slightly after you release the brake and the park pawl inside the transmission will be jammed into place by the transmission. This makes it difficult to get it out of park.
