'87 300E neutral start switch?

[JoeR]

My '87 300E had developed a starting problem. At first it became hit or miss in Park and became worse. Now it will not start in park, only in Neutral.

My take is that it is related to the neutral start switch. Where are the electricals located in relation to this?

TIA, Joe

[Gilly]

The neutral safety switch is on the left side of the transmission, where the shift arm is. It sounds like it could also be the bushings on the shift rod are worn out.

Gilly

[bbach7]

I replaced this switch a few days ago. These threads helped me, so I'll pass them along:

Neutral Safety Lockout Switch Replacement on 300E

Where does neutral safety switch connect on '88 300E?

[JoeR]

Originally posted by Gilly
The neutral safety switch is on the left side of the transmission, where the shift arm is. It sounds like it could also be the bushings on the shift rod are worn out.

Gilly

Thanks, Gilly. What bushings??

Finally got the chance to check this today. There were no signs of bushings at either end of the link rod, but lots of play. I now wonder how it even shifted properly. Will get some soon. Thanks again.

[Gilly]

Joe:
Don't know if you're kidding or not. The plastic bushings are on the arms on either side, one on the transmission arm, one on the shifter arm. Put them in boiling water, then pick them out of the water with a pliers, wait until it's cool enough to handle, then install it. It'll be pliable enough to install for about 2 or 3 minutes.

Gilly

[JoeR]

Gilly, I wasn't kidding. There were no remnants of bushings at either end of the rod, just LOTS of play. It's a wonder that gear selection even worked properly.

I'm going to get and install new bushings. Likely the start-in-park problem will go away too.

[psfred]

Joe:

Not too unusual, they are plastic and wear through, then fall out. I've put them in all the cars so far, or need them.

Gilly:

Thanks for the hint -- I've often had to remove the lever and use a vice to press the bushings in they are so stiff. Hot water is much faster....!

Peter