1956 Drops back into Reverse from Park

[Grabber429]

Whilst test driving my 56 for the first time, i noticed it dropped back into reverse from park , luckily i was in drivers seat and hand brake was on , any thoughts on rectification?

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[Critterpainer]

Start off with the shifter adjustment, then possibly shift lever bushings. After that checks out inspect the transmission mount. If the mounts are bad the drivetrain can move independently of the shift lever.

 

[Grabber429]

is there a procedure for the shifter adjustment ? Replaced all mounts already

 

[Critterpainer]

Its in the shop manual. I am 500 miles away from mine

 

[CSPIDY]

Remove the linkage at either end, there should be detects in the transmission and shift lever.
It should lock into park

 

[doug7740]

is there a procedure for the shifter adjustment ? Replaced all mounts already

Attached is the manual linkage adjustment from the Fordomatic shop manual.

doug7740
1955 Thunderbird Blue

 

[knuckle47]

This is an area I am currently going to start on. My ‘56 will start in park. Wondering if this was purposely modified? When you Press the shifter release button on top to move the lever into any forward or reverse movement , it all moves the car but, that lever can just be slid from reverse into neutral or drive without pressing the top button. THAT goes against my OCD on manufacturers design and operation….and when I was looking for anything in the shop manual or the Fordomatic manual, there is minimal coverage. A small 4 line blurb about the spring loaded ball and detent piece. I am hoping that when I remove the cover and floor shifter, it will show me a more clear logical approach to fixing this. If someone has a clear tip to provide, I am all ears.

Since it’s too cold to hang out there more than 20 minutes, I can only sit inside and mull it over and over in my mind. Making me more anxious. 🙂

 

[CSPIDY]

The shifter bracket has notches
so unless those notches are completely wiped or worn out
I would suspect the is an issue with the shifter knob spring or pin
Have you tried to start it in drive?
They make a neutral safety switch that also allows you to start in park
I have found cars that have bypassed the neutral safety switch
Good luck with your dilemma
Keep us posted

 

[knuckle47]

48 degrees today… a warm spell so I’m heading out to take a few closer looks. I’ll look for any numbers I can find