Truck starts by moving the shift lever

[ghouse62]

I have done quite a few searches on lots of Ranger forums and have yet to find anything that helps. My truck is a 2000 XL with 3.0 Auto, and my problem is when I turn the key to start in Park only get lights not start. Then without turning the key to the start position and I move the shift lever out of start it cranks up and engages Drive. Kind of spooky if you aren't prepared. Oddly there is no reverse either.
I just bought the truck and was told by the PO that he had the tranny replaced and it returned with this problem.???. I thought that it might be a simple shift selector problem but much to my chagrin, I adjusted it and no change. Any help with this would be greatly appreciated.

Greg

 

[Dirtman]

The digital range sensor (often mistakenly referred to as the neutral safety switch) could be out of alignment. The range sensor is the black electrical part that bolts to the side of the trans on the gear selector shaft. When installing the range sensor you need to line up the two small marks while the trans is in neutral. There is a special tool to do this but you really don't need it.

The shift cable itself could also be improperly adjusted. There is a procedure to adjust it that involves tying a sock full of 3lbs of weight to the shift lever. (totally serious)

I'll get my shop manual and give you the proper procedure for adjusting each in the morning. To dark and cold to go dig though the garage right now.