COBRA2000

1970 olds 442-w30 3 speed auto...shifter go's into park, but transmission is almost in park...i have to slam the shifter hard to get it to go into park and unlock the ignition switch to get my key out...

Fun71

Instead of slamming the shifter around, try grabbing the steering wheel collar behind the key switch and turning it.

As for adjustments, it could be either the backdrive linkage or the shifter cable. The shifter cable has a slot on the transmission end with a nut/bolt to attach it to the transmission selector ear. Loosen the nut, move the cable a tiny bit, tighten the nut, then check the shifter throw.

COBRA2000

I will give that a try.... thank you!!

matt69olds

If turning the column allows you to remove the key, inspect all the plastic bushings in the linkage. If anything is worn, replace it before trying to adjust the linkage

COBRA2000

Problem solved..I get home and drove it around the block and was backing in my driveway, but then I put it in park and the transmission went into drive!! WTF!! So I jacked the car up on stands and found the shifter cable was dislodged from the transmission.. Luckily the clip to keep it attached to the transmission was still there..Hooked it back up and everything is working perfectly..Thank's for everyone's input!!