280 SE 4.5 - Column shift stuck in park

[Tom Drew]

280 SE 4.5 Column shift stuck in park. I keep the car stored in the winter for the most part, but try to drive it a couple of times a month when the roads are dry and salt-free. So, started the car a few days ago now that the weather is better, car started fine, steering wheel unlocked, but the column shift would not come out of park and feels like it is locked via the ignition lock.

I sprayed the linkage from above and below the car with WD-40 and it seems like the bushings are intact and nothing looks abnormal. I'm wondering if it is possible for the trans to stay locked via the ignition lock even though the steering wheel unlocks and turns as normal? Any diagnostic/repair info would be greatly appreciated.

Tom

[vandor]

I don't think the shift lever locks with the ignition as in newer cars. On my '72 I can move the lever even with the key out.
Are you sure you are pulling it toward yourself all the way?
On mine the bushings have some play, so when one pulls the lever it comes
a few inches and 'stops'. But it won't shift. Then it has to be pulled back more against a fairly heavy spring to actually unlock it and then it can be shifted.

Csaba
72 280SEL 4.5