Transmission will not shift back into park

1997 FORD E-SERIES VAN
120,000 MILES
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JESSEMCDANIEL
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A pump sounds dry, transmission fluid is full. The pump sound responds to pressing the brake. Wouldn’t shift back into park after backing up into a spot. Broke the shifter tube trying to return the gears to park.
May 13, 2022 at 6:00 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

Have you checked the transmission linkage to see if there is something that has stuck or broken? Also, the noise you hear, could it be a vacuum issue at the brake booster?

As far as the linkage, on the driver's side of the transmission, the linkage connects to what Ford calls the DTR (digital transmission range) sensor. Check to make sure nothing is bent or has come apart. (See pic 1)

As far as the "dry pump" sound is concerned, could you record it and upload it for me to hear? Also, and don't laugh, check to see if the brake lights are working.

Let me know.

Joe

See pic below.
May 14, 2022 at 8:34 PM
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JESSEMCDANIEL
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I believe the brake booster may be the issue, or the lines. This is the sound I’m getting. The brake pedal also doesn’t relax when starting the engine. It jerks a little and then the noise starts immediately.
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May 17, 2022 at 9:06 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

I need a bit more info. What is the engine size and is this a super duty? I assumed it was an E150. What I'm hearing sounds like it has a hydro-boost power brake system. . Is the power steering fluid full?

Let me know. Also, let me know the engine size.

Take care and I'll watch for your reply.

Joe
May 17, 2022 at 7:08 PM
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JESSEMCDANIEL
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Well, I filled all the fluids (except brake) and the sound went away. Took a whole jug of coolant and needs topped off! Power steering is where it belongs now. All seems well, other than the initial getting it to shift back into park. It is a Ford e-450 v10 Triton. I have the replacement shifter tube and will have to install it after moving to a separate location this coming Sunday (shifting from neutral to drive underneath the engine manually) the brakes feel functional but a little stiff. I didn’t fill brake fluid because I’m unsure if I can simply add more. Just being cautious to anything I’m unaware of.
May 18, 2022 at 3:21 PM
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JESSEMCDANIEL
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Not sure if I mentioned it’s a shuttle bus.
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May 18, 2022 at 3:25 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

That makes sense now. Yep, it has a hydro-boost system. The power brake assist is provided by the power steering pump. As soon as I heard it, I suspected that was what it had.

As far as brake fluid goes, yes you can fill it anytime it is low. However, if it is getting low quickly, make sure nothing is leaking. Also, you may still have air in the boost. See if the brake pedal starts feeling normal. Just be aware that it feels different.

Let me know if I can help in any way. Also, please feel free to come back anytime in the future.

Take care,

Joe
May 18, 2022 at 8:06 PM