Can not remove Key???

[goatfarmer]

Need help, hopefully there's a remedy that is not too labor intensive? 90 T4r with auto.: First time this has happened where I made a few stops today and on each occasion I was unable to move the ignition key to the lock position without using the override button at the top of the center console. Once I returned home now I can not move the ignition key to the lock position, with or without using the override button, so now the key remains in the off position and I can not remove it???

Curious, if I leave the key in the off position will it drain the battery, noticed the clock is lite; whereas, don't believe it stays on with the key in the lock position. Suggestions/Comments appreciated.

 

[fourwd1]

Have you tried to remove it while jigging the shifter?
There's a switch in the shifter assy and the linkage is worn and it's not engaging the switch that controls the solenoid.

 

[goatfarmer]

Have you tried to remove it while jigging the shifter?
There's a switch in the shifter assy and the linkage is worn and it's not engaging the switch that controls the solenoid.

Thank you, gave it quite a jiggle and was able to remove the key. Intend disassembling in next few days and check connections, if the solenoid is accessible, I will clean, check connections, and or replace?? Not sure how well the jiggling will work in the future, somewhat questionable this time around? If in a pinch, still curious if the key is left in the off position will it drain the battery, imagine I should first check if it's insured for theft. Again, thank you.

 

[theking11863]

It shouldn't drain the battery but then again its strange the the clock is on on the off position. Might want to get that checked out. As far as jiggling is concerned you can also try to maybe shift it out of park and put it back in. might be a more effective solution. Hope this helps

 

[goatfarmer]

It shouldn't drain the battery but then again its strange the the clock is on on the off position. Might want to get that checked out. As far as jiggling is concerned you can also try to maybe shift it out of park and put it back in. might be a more effective solution. Hope this helps

Thank you, yes info helps. Agree, don't believe the clock should be on, which brings me to the conclusion the problem has to be fixed. Today intend checking and perhaps I will find the problem is obvious, perhaps loose connection, etc.; oh yea, wishfull thinking.

Been waiting couple months for 90 4x4 shifter unit to come up on ebay, the plastic shifter indicator is faded but when the unit did come up $95, found I could not pull the trigger, imagine same dilemma as many other owner's, after the 200K mile mark not sure if want to put the money out for a new battery. Again, thank you for the input!!.

 

[goatfarmer]

Removed the console and disassembled the gear shifter assemble a few times and found the only way I can get the gear selector and ignition to the lock position, after a fashion, is without the console. Studied for awhile and believe I can reassemble but all depends on whether I can install the shift lever handle with the Shifter Release button to operate properly, believe worn components may be effecting the tolerances??

The shifter lever is too loose and thought I would check with members to determineto see if members aware of any repair kits?

If I remove the 4 screws that secure the unit to the trans tunnel can I left the assembly out without opening a can of worms? Remote possibility of possible replacement but the pic shows there's a lever which I assume attaches to shifting arm(s) on the trans??

Any comments, assistance appreciated!!