Shift lever not working properly

1997 FORD F-150

207,123 MILES • 4.2L • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC

MAHOME

MEMBER
1 POST

I start it up and pull the shift lever down it will go as far as drive but I can't pull it down to 2nd or low. it doesn't seem to have a problem downshifting automatically when I'm going down the road.

May 31, 2021 at 6:53 AM

ASEMASTER6371

✓Experienced Mechanic
52,796 POSTS

Good evening,

This sounds like the shift cable is seized internally. It is common for this to happen over years and when the shifter is not moved down to the lower gears for a long period, the cable will not move.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/automatic-transmission-problems

I attached the procedure for you below for the replacement of the cable assembly.

Let us know if you have any other questions.

Roy

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