Chrysler Repair: Steering column replaced, now no starter, chrysler minivan, cable sheath

Question
Recently I replaced a steering column in my friends 94 Chrysler minivan after completing the install (I checked and double checked all fuses and relays by replacing them, and wire connections)but could not get power to the starter when turning the ignition key. Is there some type of reset sequence I need to perform in order to get the vehicle to start?

Answer
Hi Butch,
I assume that the gear shift lever is on the steering column and that you had to disconnect the cable for that which connects the lever to the transmission. I suspect that your problem is that the cable needs to be adjusted at the transmission so as to close the safety switch that only will allow the starter relay to power up when it is park or neutral. Put the shift lever in Park, then go to the transmission and adjust the cable sheath clamp so that when you have the shift rod of the transmission in its most rotated detent position (park) that the cable is fully taught. If you have the 4 speed automatic trans the safety switch is on the rear corner of the trans at a diagonal position at the lowest surface. You could check this theory out by lifting the tab on the plug, remove the plug, and then simply jump from the center pin of the plug to a ground. That simulates what the internal switch of the trans does in park or neutral. Then try the starter. Make sure that you are in park or neutral when you try this, rather than in a gear, and have your foot on the brake just in case you aren't.
Roland