AW4 Shift Linkage
 

1990 Wagoneer. I originally had issues with not being able to physically shift into 1-2. I adjusted the shift linkage and regained my ability to shift into 1-2, but this resulted in the occasional inability to engage the stater. I would have to shift into neutral to start the engine. I got tired of this, so I followed the repair manual procedure for shifter adjustment. My starting problem went away, but now I have again lost my ability to shift into 1-2. WTH? Am I missing a procedure here? Do I need to make the adjustment again and fudge the shift lever a little towards the next detent (3) and clamp in place?

Put the transmission lever (on the transmission itself) all the way forward into the 1-2 position by hand. Put the shifter inside the truck firmly into 1-2. Tighten the cable clamp at the transmission bracket without moving anything. That locks the range in.

Thank you.I performed with the shifter in Park:

1: shift into park

2: raise vehicle

3: release cable adjuster clamp at trans. end of cable to unlock it

4: unsnap cable from cable mounting bracket on trans.

5: slide cable eyelet off transmission shift lever (that is the lever on the tranny).

6: verify that trans. shift lever is in Park detent by moving lever fully rearward. Last rearward detent is park position.

7: Verify that it's locked by trying to turn the driveshaft.

8: Slide cable eyelet onto trans. shift lever

9: snap shift cable adjuster into mounting bracket on transmission.

10: Lock shift cable by pressing cable adjuster clamp down until it snaps into place.

11: Lower the vehicle and check that it starts only in Park and Neutral.

I could follow this procedure with the shifter in 1-2. I am guessing that I will lose starting in Park again, though.

Did you try adjusting the neutral safety switch?

Yeah, the NSS is likely out of adjustment too. To align it, I put it in reverse and set something behind the vehicle so I can see the reverse lights. Then rotate the NSS back and forth and center it in the range the reverse lights come on.

Thank you. I adjusted the linkage today and now have 1-2 back(with some effort) and Park as well as starting in Park is working. I think I will try your suggestion on adjusting the NSS.