NJFrank

96 Passport, 3.2 auto.

here's the problem and what i've done to date.

The shift lever won't go into the park position or low position, I took the cover and indicator cover off to get at the shifter mechanism. There is a pin in the bottom of the shifter arm that moves into detents along a piece of metal to lock in the shifter positions. apparently the pin no lower moves down low enough to enter the park position, or the low position. These are the lowest physical detents/notches on the piece of metal (don't know the technical name). It appears that the shift lever may be slightly bent, not allowing the spring mechanism in the shifter to push the engagement pin down enough to engage these notches.

Also they key wouldn't come out for a while, managed to get it out so could could it be related to the cable from the shifter to the steering column?

It also looks like there is no way to replace the shift lever, as it seems to be welded. And the only apparent option is to replace the entire piece.

The truck can be started in neutral and driven as the other gear selections are available. Just have to park it on flat ground and engage emergency brake.

Any help/ideas would be appreciated