Q&A

 Master

the cable from the shifter to the trans is not secured from the sounds of your problem. take it to a shop to see if the cable is mounted correctly. it may be as simple as a couple of bolts came out of a bracket for the cable mounts.

Roy

 Master

If you can shift through the gears, then you at some point will be in neutral or Park. Check linkage adjustment by starting engine in PARK and NEUTRAL. Adjustment is acceptable if the engine starts in only these two positions. Adjustment is incorrect if the engine starts in one position but not both positions If the engine starts in any other position, or if the engine will not start in any position, the park/neutral switch is probably faulty.
LINKAGE ADJUSTMENT
Check condition of the shift linkage . Do not attempt adjustment if any component is loose, worn, or bent. Replace any suspect components.
Replace the grommet securing the shift rod or torque rod in place if either rod was removed from the grommet. Remove the old grommet as necessary and use suitable pliers to install the new grommet.
Shift transmission into PARK.
Raise and support vehicle.
Loosen lock bolt in front shift rod adjusting swivel .
Ensure that the shift rod slides freely in the swivel. Lube rod and swivel as necessary.
Move transmission shift lever fully rearward to the Park detent.
Center adjusting swivel on shift rod.
Tighten swivel lock bolt to 10 N·m (90 in. lbs.).
Lower vehicle and verify proper adjustment.
It is common for the Shift Indicator on the Instrument panel to be off adjustment. The center terminal of the park/neutral position switch is the starter-circuit terminal. It provides the ground for the starter solenoid circuit through the selector lever in PARK and NEUTRAL positions only. The outer terminals on the switch are for the backup lamp circuit.
SWITCH TEST
To test the switch, remove the wiring connector. Test for continuity between the center terminal and the transmission case. Continuity should exist only when the transmission is in PARK or NEUTRAL.

Shift the transmission into REVERSE and test continuity at the switch outer terminals. Continuity should exist only when the transmission is in REVERSE. Continuity should not exist between the outer terminals and the case.

Check gearshift linkage adjustment before replacing a switch that tests faulty.