Gearshift Cable

Check cable adjustment by starting the engine in Park and Neutral. Adjustment is correct if the engine starts only in Park and Neutral.

Adjustment is incorrect if the engine starts in any other position, or does not start in either Park or Neutral.

If the engine starts in any position other than Park or Neutral, or if the engine will not start at all, the [1][2]park/neutral position switch may be faulty.

Fig. 311:

Fig. 312:

The shift cable is attached to an arm on the steering column and to the transmission shift lever. Brackets support and secure the cable at each end and clips are used to secure the cable to the floor pan (Fig. 311) and (Fig. 312). The cable is operated by an arm on the steering column shaft.

The cable has a built-in adjuster mechanism at the transmission end (Fig. 312). The mechanism consists of an internal clamp and release button that allows the cable to be extended, or shortened for adjustment.

SHIFT CABLE ADJUSTMENT CHECK
The ignition key should rotate from Off to Lock only when the shift lever is in Park.

Shifting out of Park should only be possible when the ignition key is in Off, Run, or Start positions. It should not be possible when the key is in Accessory or Lock position.

Engine start should only occur in Park and Neutral position.

SHIFT CABLE ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE
1. Place column shift lever in Park.
2. Raise vehicle.
3. Unsnap cable from transmission shift lever (Fig. 312).
4. Move transmission shift lever all the way rearward to Park detent.
5. Release cable adjuster (at transmission end of cable) to unlock cable.
6. Snap cable back onto pin on transmission shift lever.
7. Press cable lock inward to secure cable.
8. Lower vehicle and verify correct cable adjustment.