Ford Repair: 1996 ford econoline van starting problem, ford econoline van, ford econoline

Question
sometimes van starts;sometimes not.have replaced starter 3 times within year.battery yr. old and good.12 volt power wire also replaced.  Go out to start van, turn key and get click.  go back 2 hours later, van starts right up.won't happen again for about a week. has been going on for about 2 months. 1996 ford econoline E-150 van. V6.  Am about ready to shoot van and mechanics who tell me it's a mystery to them - starts every time for them!  HELP and THANKS! Have been told problem mght be tied into alarm system, so did not use alarm for a week - result:  van still wouldn't start and is now in dealer service garage and van started just fine for them.

Answer
Hello and thanks for the question...I'll try to help.
 There are a few things to check for this....
First...make sure that the transmission shift lever is fully engaged in the Park position. Next time it happens, move the shifter to Neutral, and see if it starts. If it does, you'll need to replace the MLP (Manual Lever Position) sensor, which is located on the side of the transmission. It acts as a safety switch, to ensure the vehicle is NOT in gear when starting. They have had a few problems with them.
 Next, check and recheck you battery cable ends. Make sure they are good, clean and tight.
I hope this helps,
Erik