Can't you start in P or N? I don't know anything about that shifter, but you ought to be able to confirm proper operation in your driveway.

I wonder if that shifter can be retrofitted to a W123. One of the things I don't like about my TD is that my toddler can shift it out of Park if someone forgets to set the park brake.

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Remember, Safety Third!
'99 E300 Turbodiesel, '82 300TD, 1996 12V Cummins Turbo, '94 Neoplan - Detroit 6V92TA