Working on my 2003 Ranger 2.3 Automatic, I have purchased and installed a new automatic shifter as the old one's button in the end was gone plus it was nasty and faded. After installing the new shifter handle, new column bushings and clamps, cleaning and lubricating everything I can't get the shifter out of park. I have checked the #10 fuse in the drivers side dash fuse box, it is good. Checked and made sure power was getting to the terminal on the Shift lock actuator ( Yellow and Grey) and it is but when I push the button on the shifter should it not send power through the red and green wire to actuate the Shift lock actuator / Solenoid? It was working before, or should I say it was all worn out and the push button was missing so it was not in play but it did shift. I purchased a new Shift lock actuator assembly for it and am thinking I didn't need it lol, it does not work either, Should have checked it all out first.

Thanks for any help diagnosing the problem.

 

The button on end of shifter is for OverDrive on/off

The shift lock is activated(pulled back) by the brake pedal sensor/switch, foot on the brake releases the lock, it uses Fuse #9 in cab fuse box, 10 is for the Flasher(turn signals)
The red/light green stripe wire should have 12v when foot is on the brake pedal, 0v otherwise
This is not brake light power, thats a different part of same switch


There is often a button under the steering column that can be used to unlock shifter if actuator fails

 

Thank you! Can't believe I did not realize that, lol. I pulled all the interior out to put down Dynomat and replace the carpet and forgot that if I were sitting in the truck my foot would have been on the brake while changing gears.

 

Yes, my list of 20/20 hind sight would be too long to list

Up to, and including, spending an hour diagnosing a No Start........................it was out of gas, done that TWICE, but not on the same car, lol