Ford Repair: Explorer transmission indicator, ford dealership, gear selection

Question
I have a 1999 Explorer XLT 2WD.  At some point about 2 years
ago, I don't know how or when, the transmission indicator on
the dashboard became misaligned by a gear, i.e. the car appears
to be in 2 when the transmission is actually in D, etc.  

At the time I asked about it in the Ford dealership and was told
that it had no connection to the transmission, but would cost
$250+ to fix the indicator.  

I'm getting ready to sell the car, and trying to fix all the little
things with it and wanted I second opinion about this.  I realize I
likely can't crack open the dash and fix it myself, but wondered
if there was an alternative to the replacement the dealership
seems to want to do.

Thanks in advance!

Answer
Hello and thanks for the question.....I'll try to help.
 There really isn't any other way to make the indicator line up with the gear selection other then to adjust the indicator needle itself.
What you need to do is open up the column cover over the steering wheel and remove part of the middle and lower dash board. It will take a little time, but it will save you the money from going to the dealer.
After the cover is removed, place the transmission in neutral and align the indicator with the adjustment wheel that is located on the right side of the column. It will have a wire leading out of it (copper in color)--that attatches to the gage insert cluster.
After Adjusting it, you should be able to reinstall everything and be all set.
I hope this helps, let me know if I can do anything further for you,
Erik