96 tracker ignition lock

Our '96 Tracker about 75 percent of the time will not let us remove the key from ignition unless we hit the gear shift (auto) repeatedly. I've put lub on the cable that connects the two at the ignition end but can't figure out how to get to the gear shift end. Do I have to remove the console or is there another way? How do you remove the gear shift handle?

You probably need shift gear mechanism lubrication under the console. You don't have to remove the shift lever to gain access to lube or adjust. lift cover over lever,set on side and there's enough room to work.. Ck shilf lock solenoid( foot brake operation) for sticking .Pushing the shift lever all the way up helps as well as hiting the lever and causes less damage. Stop auto,with foot on brake pedal ,set Park Brake and push shift lever to fully engage on PARK . ( recomended procedure for settting Auto in PARK acc.to manual)hope this helps tonio424