Expert: keith - 5/23/2005

Question
I just bought a used 1992 2WD Astro Extended Cargo Van with 120,000 miles.  It is in excellent condition except for being difficult to shift from park to drive.  The transmission itself does not slip once placed into drive, nor does it shift hard.  I checked the fluid (the previous owner had done a transmission flush recently, in an effort to correct this problem with no help) and it is the right color and serviced to the proper level.  This problem seems most evident when I first start the car in the morning, and the difficult nature of the shift lever decreases during the day.  It feels like there might be some mechanical bind in the park position, because as soon as it releases from park, it goes right into whatever position I select.  I would appreciate any help that you may offer.

Answer
Hi Justin, You need to determine where the problem is. If it is a cable\linkage problem of in the transmission itself. Disconnect the linkage from the transmission, and try to move the shift lever to see if it is stiff. Then try the lever on the transmission to see if that is stiff. If you need more info , let me know. Thanks, Keith.