the gear shifter is off?

1999 FORD EXPLORER

115,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

MGERSON

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I am looking at a 1999 Explorer sport automatic for purchase with 115K miles. The vehicle is super clean however the gear shifter is off. When you put it in Drive, the arrow lines up in N, 2 is actually drive, 1 is actually 2, etc.Once in gear, it is OK, but wonder if this is a major issue or minor adjustment. Vehicle also runs great, but when stopping at a light, you hear the engine shakes a bit while going somewhat up and down in sound. Not familair with Ford or Explorers. Is this normal (or minor adjustment) for this type of vehicle or a major problem to steer clear of? Thank you

Nov 23, 2010 at 1:29 PM

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SQM

AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

It sounds like the shift cable might need adjustment. Over time the cable that controls the selector can stretch or come off the bracket. Which will cause it to act the way you are experiencing.
It will show one gear but be in a different one. Or it might not engage at all.

Inspect the cable and go thru the adjustment process (attached below).

As for the engine shacking it can be various different items. If it has not been tune up in a while it could run a little rough. So a basic tune can can surely improve the idle quality and restore performance.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-tune-up-a-car-engine

I have attached both the cable adjustment and replacement procedure.

Please let me know of any questions.
Thank you.

Images (Click to enlarge)

Sep 8, 2021 at 8:53 AM