Can't select park so won't start..

Hi folks,

On my second trip in an 1983 500SL Auto, I turned off the engine with the auto transmission still in drive. After shopping for 20 mins, I can't start the engine - battery looks ok (no dimming off the heaadlights when trying to start). I think it's because I can't select neutral or park. Indeed, with the ignition on, gearshift in Park, I can roll the car back and forth any distance without any locking, indicating it's still in gear.

The gearshift is very free (electronic, not mechanical?), and no gearbox noises as I shift between gears.

Am I missing something here - doing something wrong, or a blown fuse? I've spent hours on the web looking, nothing. Any help much appreciated.

Thanks in advance...

Have you tried starting with the selector in neutral? This is just a shot in the dark but maybe the neutral saftey switch? Then again that wouldn't explain why it's still in gear. The only other thing that comes to mind is that maybe the shift linkage has come loose.

After reading your post a bit more carefully it sounds just like the linkage has come loose. Probably just worn out shifter bushings...you might get the linkage back in to get it on a lift but your still in for a fun time getting those little $%^%$'s in place :)