Steering Column Repair: Bolt fell out of steering column, cable arm, ford exp

Question
I have a 2001 Ford Exp.  This morning it would not go into park. I saw a bolt had fallen out of the steering column, and I think that caused the problem.  Is this possible?  would it be an easy fix?

Answer

Ford column Hi Michelle:

This is a fairly common problem on Ford vehicles.  I am enclosing a picture so you know what you are looking at.  The bolt that fell out (arrow pointing to it) is supposed to hold the shift cable arm to the steering column.  You will have to lay on your back on the driver's floor and look up.  On the top side of the steering column about 8 inches from the floor, you will see the lever and shift cable and it will be loose.  That's where the bolt needs to go.  It's a 30 torx head and simply needs to go in and be tightened (along with the other one as well)
I hope this helps (and saves you hundreds of dollars)

Good Luck
Doug