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1991 Ford F150 Custom Reg Cab

1991 Ford F150
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January 3, 2013, 9:11 am

Brett H
 

Question: Why is it hard to shift gears?

I got in a fender bender a week ago and ever since it has been extremely difficult to change gears. The shifter is on the column and has a lot of give it in. It will go up or down almost a half inch in either direction. I can shift the gears, but it takes me jerking as hard as I can to move it from park. If it is in a gear other than park though, it shifts normally (but the play is still there in the shifter). What could be causing this problem? The linkage was already very slightly off before the wreck if that helps. Any ideas on cost of repair at a shop or what to do if I do myself? (I already rebuilt most the truck when I bought it and am very mechanically inclined). The truck is also an automatic 2WD if that matters


January 3, 2013, 1:19 pm

Tyler O
Expert Mechanic

The shift cable is probably tweaked a little or crushed. It may need to be replaced. It could be another component, you'll need to take a look.


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