1998 e300 td shifter question

[d-zel]

I can move the shifter from P to R,N,D,4,3,2,1 without pushing the brake pedal, engine on or off doesn't matter. Is this normal???

[Ockman]

No. The key is required to be in the ignition and brake pedal depressed. I just went out and confirmed in my car.

[d-zel]

Originally Posted by Ockman

No. The key is required to be in the ignition and brake pedal depressed. I just went out and confirmed in my car.

thank you , I probably have a bad switch or something.

[turbodiesel]

No, there is a lock solenoid in the shifter assmebly, that is probably your problem. The signal comes from the brake light switch.

[d-zel]

Originally Posted by turbodiesel

No, there is a lock solenoid in the shifter assmebly, that is probably your problem. The signal comes from the brake light switch.

is it hard to get to that solenoid?

[Diesel Fan]

Why bother? You have a solenoid in your brain that will prevent shifting until your foot is on the brake or you're ready to go. Why spend the money on your E-300D if it's not necessary? It worked like that for decades before the safety nazis required the lock.