'72 250 column shifter stuck in park

[rgnprof]

I have read through numerous threads discussing the opposite problem - shifter too loose or it will move but the trans doesn't shift...

I am having trouble getting mine out of park - usually if I fiddle with it long enough I can get it to move and get the car in gear - this morning I couldn't get it to shift out of park. Been a progressive problem and while a bit easier shifting in to other gears once I'm out of park, I've had some trouble going from reverse to drive, for instance.

Any thoughts?

Automatic transmission, by the way.

Ryan

[rgnprof]

I have read through numerous threads discussing the opposite problem - shifter too loose or it will move but the trans doesn't shift...

I am having trouble getting mine out of park - usually if I fiddle with it long enough I can get it to move and get the car in gear - this morning I couldn't get it to shift out of park. Been a progressive problem and while a bit easier shifting in to other gears once I'm out of park, I've had some trouble going from reverse to drive, for instance.

Any thoughts?

Ryan

[Sugar Bear]

Try putting penetrating oil (not WD 20x2) on every linkage pivot point you can find. Could be a neutral safety switch on the driver's side of the transmission seizing up. Going to have to disconnect linkages to see where it is binding.

Good luck!!!

[rumb]

Could it be the ignition lock? If your lock/ key is worn that could cause issues.

First course would be to check all the shifter bushings.

[Idle]

Is this a floor shift? If so start with removing the shift cover and see if there is something blocking it. It could be as simple as something has fallen into the cracks and will not let it move. A small nut or bolt would do this.